On this page 6 sections
Quick answer
- Heavy periods are a very common cause of iron deficiency anaemia.
- Tiredness, breathlessness and pale skin are classic signs.
- Get a blood test before starting iron.
- Treating the heavy periods matters as much as topping up iron.
Iron deficiency anaemia is when you do not have enough iron to make healthy red blood cells, so less oxygen gets around your body. Heavy periods are one of the most common causes. It is very treatable.
Signs to notice
- Tiredness and low energy that sleep does not fix
- Shortness of breath and heart palpitations
- Pale skin and headaches
- Less commonly: hair loss, spoon-shaped nails, a sore tongue, restless legs, or craving non-food things like ice
Getting checked
NICE says everyone with heavy periods should have a full blood count, alongside any treatment. A GP may also check ferritin. If the cause of anaemia is not clear, they may do other tests. Sometimes iron is low for reasons other than periods, so it is worth getting checked and not just guessing.
Treatment
If your blood test shows low red blood cells, iron tablets are recommended, usually for about 6 months. Taking them with food may ease side effects, and orange juice after a tablet may help absorption. Iron can cause constipation or diarrhoea and darker poo, which is expected. Treating the cause, such as heavy periods, matters as much as topping up iron.
Iron-friendly foods
- Dark green leafy veg like kale and watercress
- Pulses: beans, peas and lentils
- Fortified cereals and bread
- Dried fruit such as apricots, prunes and raisins
- Meat, if you eat it
Large amounts of tea, coffee and dairy can reduce iron absorption, so try to have them away from iron-rich meals.
MythEveryone feeling tired should start iron supplements.
Iron should be guided by a blood test. Too much can be harmful, and an overdose can be fatal for young children, so keep tablets well out of reach.
- Taking them with a cup of tea
- Drinking orange juice after the tablet
- Taking them with milk
Show the answer
B. Drinking orange juice after the tablet
The NHS says orange juice after a tablet may help absorption. Tea, coffee and dairy can reduce it.
Sources
Written by the Splash teamSources checked
This is general information, not medical advice. Splash can’t diagnose. If you’re worried, talk to a GP, pharmacist or sexual health clinic. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US). How we write and check articles.