preemies and anemia

mrs.cb

My 29 weekers are both anemic.  I know this is common among preemies, but their hematocrit count seems awfully low at 23 (son) and 27 (daughter).  At their first pediatrician appointment, he didn't seem concerned at all.  However, when my son was in the NICU, he was transfused for being anemic.  Should I be worried or is this something that gets better with time?

witt0198

Honestly, I'd rely on your pediatrician for this one. I know after awhile they didn't want to keep transfusing Evan even while he was still in NICU because it stunts the body doing what it needs to do to make it's own blood. I know they wanted Evan on polyvisol with iron, so that he got the extra iron to make blood cells.

 That and if your LO's are really tired and having a hard time doing things like eating, then I guess I'd be a bit concerned, and would ask the pedi about it again.

lemen99

Andrew had 2 transfusions and was very borderline coming home.  They said to avoid more transfusions if possible b/c your body knows it doesn't have to make as much blood if you give them blood. (so it isn't as helpful long term)

Anyways, I'd trust your dr on this!