Anaemia, a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or haemoglobin in the blood, affects millions worldwide. Evidence shows that periods can significantly impact the risk of anaemia. This relationship highlights the importance of awareness and proactive measures to maintain optimal health during periods. By addressing this connection, individuals can better manage their menstrual health and minimise the risk of anaemia due to periods, ensuring a better quality of life. Let us delve into this intricate relationship to understand the correlation between periods and anaemia.
How do periods affect anaemia?
Periods, or menstruation, involve the shedding of the uterine lining, causing blood loss. For many women, this monthly occurrence results in the loss of varying amounts of blood over several days. Consequently, significant blood loss during periods can contribute to iron deficiency which is an essential component for producing hemoglobin.
Haemoglobin, present in red blood cells, aids in transporting oxygen throughout the body. When iron levels drop due to excessive blood loss during periods, the body’s ability to produce haemoglobin diminishes. This can lead to iron deficiency anaemia which is a common anemia menstrual symptom, characterised by fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Moreover, some women experience which includes other anaemia menstrual symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia). This can intensify the risk of anaemia. Menorrhagia involves prolonged or exceptionally heavy periods, causing increased blood loss and exacerbating iron depletion.
Are certain women more prone to anaemia due to periods?
It can. Individual factors contribute to varying susceptibilities to anaemia during periods. Naturally heavy periods, lasting more than seven days or requiring frequent changes of sanitary products, might put some women at a higher risk of anaemia. Additionally, conditions such as fibroids can cause anaemia. Likewise, endometriosis and other bleeding disorders can also increase blood loss during periods to increase the risk of anaemia.
Furthermore, women who have shorter menstrual cycles (less than 21 days) might experience more frequent periods, potentially leading to increased blood loss over time. Adolescents, who may have irregular cycles as their bodies adjust to periods, might also be vulnerable to anaemia due to unpredictability in menstrual patterns.
How can anaemia due to heavy periods be managed or prevented?
Managing periods and anaemia often involves focusing on replenishing iron stores. Adopting a balanced diet aids in maintaining adequate iron levels. At the same time, it is not recommended to rely solely on diet to cure anaemia. Iron supplements might be recommended for women experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding or those with diagnosed iron-deficiency anaemia. However, there can be side effects of excessive iron intake.
So, regular health check-ups to monitor iron levels, especially for women prone to heavy periods are crucial. This can prevent any damage to the organ to due excessive iron intake. Menstrual hygiene products like menstrual cups or certain types of tampons might control and reduce the risk of anaemia in some individuals.
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