The Vegan's Dilemma
B12 deficiency in pregnancy
Heather(name changed)
Age 34
“I thought I was eating healthily. I had no idea my diet was missing something so critical.”
Heather's Journey
The Beginning
I'd been vegetarian for most of my life and transitioned to veganism five years ago for ethical reasons. I thought I was eating a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of nutritional yeast and fortified foods.
The Struggle
During my second pregnancy, I began experiencing severe anxiety and depression that was unlike anything I'd felt during my first pregnancy. I also had overwhelming fatigue that seemed beyond normal pregnancy tiredness. My midwife suggested these were normal pregnancy symptoms and hormonal changes. I struggled on, barely functioning.
Getting Diagnosed
At my 28-week appointment, routine blood tests revealed severe anaemia. Further testing showed my B12 level was dangerously low at 89 ng/L. My midwife immediately referred me to a haematologist and started me on urgent B12 injections. The haematologist explained that the fortified foods I was eating weren't providing enough B12, especially during pregnancy when requirements increase.
Recovery
The improvement in my mental health was dramatic and rapid. Within two weeks, the anxiety that had been consuming me began to lift. My energy levels improved significantly, and I felt able to enjoy my pregnancy again. I could actually look forward to meeting my baby instead of dreading each day.
Where I Am Now
My daughter was born healthy, and I continued B12 injections throughout breastfeeding. I now take high-dose B12 supplements daily and have my levels monitored every 6 months. I remain vegan but am much more aware of supplementation.
Journey Timeline
2019
Transitioned from vegetarian to vegan
Early 2022
First pregnancy healthy (pre-full vegan)
Mid 2023
Second pregnancy - severe anxiety and fatigue
28 weeks
Routine bloods revealed severe anaemia and B12 deficiency
30 weeks
Mental health dramatically improved after treatment
Late 2023
Healthy baby born, continued supplementation
Advice to Others
Heather's recommendations for those facing similar challenges
- All vegans and vegetarians should have regular B12 testing
- If planning pregnancy, get B12 tested before conceiving
- Fortified foods alone may not provide adequate B12
- Pregnancy increases B12 requirements significantly
- Mental health symptoms can be caused by B12 deficiency
Key Facts
Cause
Dietary - inadequate B12 intake on vegan diet
Time to Diagnosis
6 months
Initial B12 Level
89 ng/LSeverely deficient
Current Status
Healthy pregnancy outcome, managing with supplements and monitoring
Symptoms Experienced
Tests Performed
- Serum B12
- Full blood count (revealed anaemia)
- Folate
- Ferritin
Treatment
Hydroxocobalamin injections during pregnancy, then oral supplements
Loading doses, then oral 1000mcg daily
Additional supplements:
Iron, Folate, Vitamin D
What Helped
- Urgent B12 treatment
- Understanding haematologist
- The B12 Society's vegan resources
- High-dose supplementation
Published: 15 January 2024
Last updated: 15 February 2024
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Medical Disclaimer: This personal story is shared for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. B12 deficiency affects everyone differently. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.