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Iron Deficiency and Fatigue: The Hidden Impact of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Approved By: Dr. Aparna Patil November 19, 2025 | 11:36 am

Many women experience more than normal bleeding during their menstrual cycles. So, what does this mean for women? Unfortunately, heavy menstrual bleeding not only impacts comfort levels. Iron deficiency and fatigue are also common conditions that stem from heavy menstrual bleeding.

Common health concerns from heavy bleeding during periods

Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common health concerns associated with heavy period bleeding.

So, what is iron deficiency anemia?

Blood contains high levels of iron within the red blood cells. Iron reserves in the blood are required for making hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen to different parts of the body. However, heavy blood loss reduces the iron reserve in your body. Lower iron reserves in the blood mean that sufficient oxygen cannot reach different parts of the body and tissues, leading to iron deficiency anemia that causes fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and weakness.

Statistics from WHO data reveal that 30% of women aged between 15 and 49 are affected by iron deficiency due to heavy bleeding. So, managing heavy menstrual bleeding and preventing anemia from heavy bleeding is important to ensure the health and overall well-being of women. It is advisable to visit a good gynaecologist for tips to prevent anemia from heavy menstrual bleeding.

Menstrual fatigue

As mentioned, reduced iron reserves in the blood result in a lack of sufficient oxygen to parts of the body. Lack of oxygen causes fatigue, weakness, and dizziness. That is why women who experience heavy bleeding during their menstrual cycle feel weak and tired. These are common symptoms of iron deficiency anemia.

Excessive pain

Heavy bleeding during periods can also result in severe pain or period cramps that can affect daily activity.

Increased blood clots

Large blood clots are common in women with heavy bleeding. Blood clots occur more frequently during heavy menstrual cycles because the blood flow is too fast for the blood’s natural anticoagulants to thin it. This causes the blood to coagulate or change to a solid or semi-solid state in the uterus.

Psychological effects

Health risks of prolonged heavy menstrual bleeding include psychological effects like depression, anxiety, and stress. Heavy bleeding can also make it difficult to perform daily activities and tasks, impacting quality of life and social interactions.

Heavy menstrual bleeding

Symptoms of heavy bleeding during menstrual cycles

The symptoms of heavy bleeding during periods include:

  • Soaked sanitary pad or overflowing vaginal cup that requires to be changed every hour or so, continuously for several hours.
  • Prolonged bleeding for more than a week
  • Bleeding between menstrual cycles
  • Passing large and frequent blood clots
  • Menstrual fatigue, anxiety, weakness, shortness of breath

When should you visit the doctor?

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of heavy bleeding during your periods, visit the best gynaecologist in Bangalore at Kinder Women’s Hospital and Fertility Centre. Get expert tips to prevent anemia from heavy bleeding.

Your doctor may advise dietary changes to include more iron-rich food and may also prescribe iron supplements. Your gynecologist may also suggest certain diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of the heavy bleeding.

At Kinder Women’s Hospital and Fertility Centre, Whitefield, Bangalore, we have the best facilities and team of doctors to ensure the health of women. Schedule your appointment today with Kinder Women’s Hospital and Fertility Centre.

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