Hi, Thanks for the query. The requirement of iron during pregnancy increases. So even if the hemoglobin is normal, an iron tablet is advisable as it will prevent development of deficiency and anemia. The daily requirement is about 60 -100 mg of elemental iron per day. Check to see how much elemental iron [the actual that will be absorbed, usually mentioned in pack] the tablet is providing. If it is less than you may need to increase the dose. The website of sangobion says that it gives 30 mg elemental iron. If your are using the same, the dose will need to be increased in the later part of the third trimester to cope with the increased requirements and prevent anemia. If you are taking additional iron rich food like carrots, meat and apples daily then increase in dose will not be needed. The darkening of skin is due to increased melanin, it is common during pregnancy and is due to a hormone similar to melanin producing hormone. This lightens after delivery. Use a sunscreen and shield yourself form sun. If the changes persist after delivery, consult a cosmetologist or a dermatologist for further management. Hope this satisfies your query. Thanks for using HCM. Feel free to ask any more questions that you may have. Dr Madhuri Bagde Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist