Menstruating adolescent girls and women are among the groups of people who are most at risk of anaemia, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Anaemia is a condition that occurs when a person does not have enough Red Blood Cells (RBCs) or haemoglobin in the body.
Menstruation is a natural process in the body characterised by vaginal bleeding that takes place every month. On average, a woman can lose about 20-90 ml (about 1-5 tablespoons) of blood during her period. When this exceeds or if the duration of menstruation goes beyond seven days, it could be a sign of menorrhagia, or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
To explore the link between menorrhagia and anaemia, the OnlyMyHealth team spoke to Dr N Sapna Lulla, Lead Consultant - Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, who also shared ways to manage the conditions.
What Is Menorrhagia?
Dr Lulla described menorrhagia as an abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding that can affect women's physical and emotional well-being. This condition can be identified by menstrual periods that last longer than seven days or involve excessive blood loss, often leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and anaemia due to the depletion of iron levels in the body.
Research suggests that menorrhagia, or abnormal uterine bleeding, is one of the leading causes of outpatient gynaecological visits, with 20-30% of women reporting the condition every year.
Risk Of Anaemia With Menorrhagia
Having a condition like menorrhagia can cause a lot of physical strain. Excessive blood loss can make it difficult to replace or restore the lost iron, which is crucial for producing haemoglobin, the protein rich in RBCs that carries oxygen throughout the body.
Iron deficiency can also lead to a decrease in the number of RBCs, increasing the risk of anaemia.
A 2023 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that women with heavy menstrual bleeding had nearly double the risk of anaemia.
Also Read: Period Pain Or Something More? Expert Answers If It Could Be Endometriosis
Common Symptoms Of Anaemia And When To Consult A Doctor
Anaemia is a condition characterised by a deficiency in the number or quality of RBCs, leading to reduced oxygen transport throughout the body. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Weakness
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Heart palpitations
- Cold hands and feet
According to Dr Lulla, it is crucial to seek medical attention if these symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning signs such as chest pain or confusion.
How To Reduce Risk Of Anaemia With Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
If you have heavy menstrual bleeding and a heightened risk of anaemia, it is crucial to adopt a healthy dietary lifestyle along with supplementation, as advised by a doctor.
The primary focus should be on consuming iron-rich foods, such as lean meats, legumes, dark leafy greens, and fortified cereals, which can significantly enhance iron levels in the body. One must pair these iron sources with vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, bell peppers, and strawberries that can improve iron absorption.
You should also consult your gynaecologist to address menorrhagia. Dr Lulla shared that hormonal therapies, including birth control pills, hormonal IUDs, and progestin therapy, can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce bleeding. Other non-hormonal options include tranexamic acid and Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) to decrease blood loss during menstruation.
Most importantly, women who suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding should track their iron levels. Consult a doctor on the type of blood tests that can help and provide proper insights on your health status. It is crucial to also stay hydrated and consider iron supplements under medical guidance, the doctor concluded.