Identify the type and cause of anemia in pregnant women by examining peripheral blood smears

The primary objective of this research is to identify the types and causes of anemia in pregnant women in the city of Makassar. This study employs a quantitative approach with a descriptive design and an analytical observational method using a cross-sectional approach. Purposive sampling was conducted among pregnant women in the third trimester undergoing pregnancy checks at Community Health Centers in Tamalate, Antang, and Pampang, with hemoglobin levels <11 g/dL. The findings revealed two types of anemia among the 40 respondents, namely microcytic and normocytic anemia. The distribution was 60% for microcytic anemia and 40% for normocytic anemia. Predominantly, 35% of microcytic anemia cases were attributed to iron deficiency linked to chronic disease with signs of infection, while 15% of normocytic anemias were associated with infection. The majority of pregnant women experienced a moderate degree of anemia. Peripheral blood smear examinations depicted a prevalence of microcytic anemia with characteristics of Fe-DD deficiency and infection, followed by normocytic anemia with infectious causes. Peripheral blood smears proved to be effective in describing the types and causes of anemia in pregnant women. The hope is that by understanding the specific causes, appropriate treatments can be administered to address anemia in mothers.