Is the fact menorrhagia leads to anemia true?

Q. Is the fact menorrhagia leads to anemia true?

Answered by
Dr. Sameer Kumar
and medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team.
This is a premium question & answer published on Mar 26, 2018 and last reviewed on: Jun 20, 2023

Hi doctor,

Person who suffers from menorrhagia (heavy bleeding during period) is at higher risk of anemia.

1. Is this true? Is there any basis to this claim?

2. What if you are already anemic and suffering from menorrhagia?

3. What complications are associated with the same?

4. What precautions should one take if suffering from iron deficiency anemia?

Please give me some tips to keep me healthy during my periods.

#

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

It is common for a woman to experience blood loss of 60-80 ml per menstrual cycle. In cases of menorrhagia the blood loss is heavier and in the form of clots or in terms of using more than 6-7 sanitary napkins daily during menses. Menorrhagia easily leads to anemia over a period of time if it has been chronic and has not been investigated and controlled or treated. Reasons for menorrhagia can be many, but most common being progesterone deficiency in reproductive age group. This can be easily diagnosed with a day 21 serum progesterone test and can be dealt accordingly with cyclical progesterone.

If you are already anemic and have ongoing menorrhagia then likely that you would become further anemic if you have not been taking iron supplements and adequate green vegetables and salads in your diet maintaining the iron balance. A level of hemoglobin less than 7 g/dL is severe anemia in women, any levels less than 10.5 g/dL is termed as anemia. For preventing anemia, you must take green leafy vegetables in your diet and salads which are rich in iron and keep yourself well hydrated. Also take plenty of citrus fruits especially rich in vitamin C, which helps in absorption of iron in the body and promotes red blood cell production and increases hemoglobin and keeps healthy periods.


Was this answer helpful?

 | 

Same symptoms doesn’t mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!



Related Questions:
I am having menorrhagia and feeling tired with chest pain and indigestion problem. Why?

Hello doctor, Since the last six months, I suddenly developed severe pain in both the legs. It arises from the thigh, goes to the calf, and finally reaches the heel. I am unable to go up the stairs or use the Indian style toilets.   Read full

I am anemic even after taking iron supplements. Why?

Hello doctor, Since the last six months, I suddenly developed severe pain in both the legs. It arises from the thigh, goes to the calf, and finally reaches the heel. I am unable to go up the stairs or use the Indian style toilets.   Read full

What is the blood report after miscarriage showing?

Hello doctor, Since the last six months, I suddenly developed severe pain in both the legs. It arises from the thigh, goes to the calf, and finally reaches the heel. I am unable to go up the stairs or use the Indian style toilets.   Read full

Also Read Answers From:

ideaComprehensive Medical Second Opinion.Submit your Case

Also Read


PCOS and Liver Problems
The hormonal imbalances in polycystic ovary syndrome could cause liver diseases. Read the article to know the relationship between these medical conditions.  Read more»
Inferior Alveolar Nerve Lateralization Technique
The inferior alveolar nerve lateralization technique is a surgical lateralization technique to reposition the nerve. Read the article to know more about this.  Read more»
COVID-19 and Ebola: Similarities and Differences
This article gives a comparison and broader overview of the outbreak of the two deadliest diseases that showed a greater incidence over the last two decades.  Read more»

Ask your health query to a doctor online?

Ask an Obstetrician & Gynaecologist Now

* guaranteed answer within 4 hours.

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.