Prevalence of Anaemia and Anaemia-Related Fatigue Among Late Postpartum Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objectives Anaemia remains a major public health problem among postpartum women and is associated with fatigue, reduced physical functioning, and poor quality of life. Despite ongoing maternal health initiatives, postpartum anaemia continues to affect a substantial proportion of women and often remains underdiagnosed. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of anaemia and its association with fatigue among late postpartum women in Belagavi City, Karnataka. Material and Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 late postpartum women aged 18–45 years who were between 6 and 12 months postpartum. Haemoglobin levels were assessed using a portable hemoglobinometer, and fatigue was evaluated using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Demographic and clinical characteristics were recorded. Data were analysed using SPSS Version 25.0, with statistical significance set at p <0.05. Results The prevalence of anaemia among late postpartum women was 45%. Mild anaemia was observed in 30% of participants, moderate anaemia in 10%, and severe anaemia in 5%. Women with anaemia demonstrated significantly higher fatigue scores than women without anaemia (mean FSS score: 5.8 vs. 3.2; p <0.05). Low dietary iron intake, low socioeconomic status, and multiparity were significantly associated with anaemia. Conclusion Anaemia remains highly prevalent among late postpartum women and is significantly associated with fatigue. Routine screening, nutritional counselling, iron supplementation, and targeted maternal health interventions are essential to improve maternal health outcomes.