Research Unraveling the Link Between Menstrual Changes and Fatigue in Middle-Aged Women
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Synopsis
A study highlights the connection between heavy menstrual bleeding and increased fatigue in middle-aged women during menopause, advocating for better awareness and education on the implications of these symptoms.
Key Takeaways
- Heavy menstrual bleeding is linked to fatigue.
- One in three women experiences abnormal uterine bleeding during menopause.
- Fatigue is often overlooked in menopause research.
- Iron deficiency anemia is a common cause of fatigue.
- Clinical awareness of bleeding changes is crucial.
New Delhi, March 13 (NationPress) A recent study indicates that heavy or extended menstrual bleeding during the menopause transition could be a significant factor in why middle-aged women may be two to four times more prone to experiencing fatigue. This research emphasizes the necessity of addressing fatigue in females.
In addition to the well-documented symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, sleep disturbances, pain, and depression, the impact of heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding is also noteworthy, as it may exacerbate fatigue.
Many women undergoing menopause report variations in menstrual flow, with a significant number experiencing episodes of prolonged menstrual bleeding (PMB) or heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) that qualify as abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB).
According to a team from the University of Michigan, one in three women in the menopause transition experiences AUB.
Despite the prevalence of AUB, previous research has largely overlooked the issue, with no studies effectively linking AUB during menopause with fatigue or diminished quality of life, noted the researchers.
Heavy menstrual bleeding is particularly associated with iron deficiency anemia, a known contributor to fatigue, as highlighted in their study published in the journal Menopause.
The research team analyzed daily menstrual calendar data from over 2,300 midlife women to ascertain whether HMB or PMB reported in the six months leading up to a follow-up visit was related to four specific fatigue symptoms (feeling worn out, feeling tired, lacking energy, or not feeling fresh).
The findings indicated that both HMB and PMB during menopause transition correlated with an elevated risk of fatigue, even after accounting for other factors. They advocate for increased clinical awareness regarding bleeding changes during this life stage, particularly when fatigue is also present.
Since iron deficiency and related anemia can be effectively managed, early evaluation and treatment in women exhibiting these symptoms would be beneficial.
“This study underscores the importance of heightened clinical awareness regarding abnormal uterine bleeding, especially given its increased incidence during menopause transition and its link to low energy or fatigue symptoms,” stated Dr. Stephanie Faubion, medical director for The Menopause Society.
Faubion emphasized the importance of educating women on the potential for prolonged or heavy menstrual bleeding during the menopause transition.
