Woman who has a hemoglobin level below.......... g/dl at any time during the pregnancy is considered to be suffering from severe anaemia–

Correct option is C

Sol. According to WHO and ICMR guidelines, a pregnant woman with a hemoglobin level less than 7 gm/dl is considered to have severe anemia. This condition significantly increases the risk of maternal morbidity, preterm delivery, low birth weight, and postpartum hemorrhage. Such women need immediate intervention, often including iron therapy, folic acid supplementation, and in severe cases, blood transfusion.
Explanation of each option:
· (a) 9–11 gm/dl – Incorrect. This range indicates mild to moderate anemia, not severe. It can be managed with dietary iron and supplements.
· (b) 7–9 gm/dl – Incorrect. This is usually classified as moderate anemia, though closer to the severe threshold.
· (c) Less than 7 gm/dl – Correct. This level defines severe anemia in pregnancy and poses serious risks to both mother and fetus. It demands urgent clinical action.
· (d) 12–14 gm/dl – Incorrect. This is considered normal hemoglobin range for non-anemic pregnant women and indicates good nutritional status.