An RCT Study Between WHO and RCOG Based Practices

Postpartum women may be at risk of developing iron deficiency and postpartum anemia due to blood loss during childbirth. Iron supplementation after delivery is commonly used to prevent anemia; however, the benefit of routine iron supplementation in postpartum women who already have normal hemoglobin levels remains an area of discussion.

This randomized controlled trial aims to compare routine iron supplementation with no iron supplementation in postpartum women with normal hemoglobin levels.

Eligible postpartum women with normal hemoglobin levels will be randomly allocated into two groups. The intervention group will receive Polymalt F (iron polymaltose complex with folic acid), one tablet daily for 6 weeks postpartum. The control group will not receive routine iron supplementation during the study period and will receive standard postpartum care.

Participants will be followed up at 6 weeks postpartum. Maternal outcomes will be assessed, including hemoglobin level, development of postpartum anemia, fatigue level,compliance with supplementation, and any reported side effects among participants receiving iron.

The primary outcome of this study is to determine whether routine iron supplementation prevents postpartum anemia in women with normal hemoglobin levels. The findings may help provide evidence regarding the need for routine iron supplementation after childbirth and improve postpartum care practices.

Inclusion criteria

Women aged 18-40 years Single Term Vaginal delivery Hemoglobin ≥10.5 g/dL at 24hour of delivery Willing for follow-up

Exclusion criteria

Postpartum hemorrhage Hemoglobin <10.5 g/dL Blood transfusion received Known hematological disease Chronic liver or kidney disease Cesarian section