Gentle Iron for Pregnancy
Hemascore is an iron supplement by Private Therapy, formulated with ferrous bisglycinate and L-5-MTHF.
Quick Summary
- Hemascore provides 36 mg elemental iron per capsule in chelated bisglycinate form
Why pregnancy makes iron harder to tolerate — the physiology
Progesterone slows gut motility
Rising progesterone levels relax smooth muscle throughout the body — including the intestinal wall.
Discontinuing iron due to GI side effects during this period has direct consequences for maternal Hb levels and fetal iron stores.
Physical compression reduces GI capacity
As the uterus expands, particularly from the second trimester onward, it physically compresses the stomach and intestines. This reduces gastric capacity and slows digestion further — meaning any iron-induced GI irritation is experienced more intensely in a smaller, more compressed digestive space.
Iron needs change across trimesters — and so does tolerance
Understanding when iron demand peaks helps explain why tolerability is not a fixed experience throughout pregnancy
Second trimester
Blood volume expansion accelerates. hCG-driven nausea typically subsides, but progesterone continues slowing GI motility.
Third trimester
Physical uterine compression compounds any remaining GI intolerance. Consistent daily supplementation through this trimester is most critical — and most difficult with poorly tolerated forms.
Hemascore is not appropriate for severe anaemia (Hb < 7 g/dL) which may require IV iron, or for women with iron overload disorders. All iron supplementation during pregnancy should be guided by your healthcare provider based on haemoglobin and ferritin monitoring.
This page is most relevant if you are…
In the first trimester and struggling to keep iron down due to combined hCG nausea and iron-induced gastric irritation
Re-starting iron in the second or third trimester after discontinuing a sulfate-based supplement earlier
Experiencing constipation that worsened after starting iron during pregnancy
Your doctor has confirmed iron deficiency or low ferritin but your previous supplement caused GI side effects that led to poor adherence
Looking for a single-capsule option that combines chelated iron with L-5-MTHF
Iron supplementation during pregnancy should always be guided by haemoglobin and ferritin monitoring. The form of iron affects tolerability — your doctor determines whether supplementation is needed and at what dose
If your doctor has confirmed you need iron but your current supplement is causing GI issues, Hemascore may be a practical alternative to discuss.
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Frequently Asked Questions
You don't have to go back to the same uncomfortable iron experience
Stomach comfort matters. Consistency matters.
- Camaschella C — Iron deficiency. N Engl J Med, 2015. DOI
Reviewed by Dr. Ahmed Hamdi
Clinical Pharmacist · Nutrition & Dietary Supplements Specialist
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