What causes anemia with heavy menstrual bleeding?

Feb 08, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

In real life, some women find themselves experiencing excessive menstrual bleeding, which can also trigger the occurrence of anemia, causing serious mental distress and posing significant harm to their health. It is therefore essential to seek prompt treatment. So, what causes heavy menstrual bleeding accompanied by anemia?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Heavy menstrual bleeding leading to anemia may be caused by uterine fibroids. Depending on their location, fibroids can interfere with the normal contraction of the uterine cavity, resulting in increased menstrual flow. Adenomyosis is another condition—although no large fibroids are present, it can also cause heavier menstruation. Additionally, persistent endometrial thickening may contribute to increased menstrual bleeding. The main concern with excessive menstrual bleeding is that it can lead to chronic iron-deficiency anemia, which accumulates over time. In some cases, this anemia may become severe; if not promptly corrected, it can progress to anemia-related heart disease, a problem that becomes particularly prominent in older age.