Iron deficiency anemia often occurs during pregnancy as a result of

Choice A reason: Chlamydia is not the least common of all the major sexually transmitted diseases. In fact, it is the most common bacterial STD in the world, affecting about 131 million people each year. ¹ Therefore, this statement is false and does not need to be emphasized.

Choice B reason: Good handwashing technique is not the best way to prevent chlamydial infections. Chlamydia is spread through sexual contact, not through casual contact or hygiene. The best way to prevent chlamydial infections is to practice safe sex, such as using condoms, limiting the number of partners, and getting tested regularly. Therefore, this statement is misleading and does not need to be emphasized.

Choice C reason: Most people infected with chlamydia are unaware that they are infected. This is because chlamydia often has no symptoms, or the symptoms are mild and easily ignored. This can lead to serious complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and increased risk of HIV. Therefore, this statement is true and needs to be emphasized.

Choice D reason: Burning and pain with urination is a frequent symptom of chlamydial infections. However, this symptom is not specific to chlamydia, as it can also occur with other STDs or urinary tract infections. Moreover, not all people with chlamydia experience this symptom, especially women. Therefore, this statement is not very informative and does not need to be emphasized.

Choice A: Decreased production of erythrocytes

This is not the primary cause of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. While erythrocyte production may be affected in certain conditions, it is not directly linked to iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy¹.

Choice B: Inadequate intake of iron

This is the correct answer. During pregnancy, the body needs more iron to make hemoglobin for the increased volume of blood. If the intake of iron is not sufficient, it could lead to iron deficiency anemia¹.

Choice C: Dilution of hemoglobin concentration

While it's true that the blood volume increases during pregnancy, leading to a relative dilution of hemoglobin, this is not the primary cause of iron deficiency anemia. The main issue is the lack of sufficient iron intake¹.

Choice D: The fetus establishing iron stores

While the fetus does require iron, which it gets from the mother, this is not the primary cause of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. The main issue is still the mother's inadequate intake of iron¹.