Emma Cleary's life was forever changed by a simple yet often overlooked health issue that affects a significant portion of women. From her teenage years, Emma suffered from extreme fatigue and dizziness, leading to her being nicknamed 'Casper' by classmates. Despite repeated visits to her general practitioner (GP), her condition was never properly addressed, and she was eventually diagnosed with anemia at the age of 16. However, the root cause of her symptoms was never explained to her, and the iron supplements she was prescribed did little to ease her symptoms.
As she grew older, the impact of her condition became more severe. Working as a model in her late 20s, Emma's hair began to fall out, and she had to deal with embarrassing episodes of fainting in public. It wasn't until she was 42 and a mother of two that Emma finally found relief. She was prescribed tranexamic acid, a medication that reduces menstrual bleeding, and also receives annual iron infusions. Without these treatments, Emma says she would not have been able to start her own business or be a mother.
The issue of heavy menstrual bleeding, or menorrhagia, affects at least one in three women. It can lead to iron deficiency, which can cause symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, and brain fog. Studies suggest that 36% of UK women of childbearing age may be iron-deficient, yet only one in four is formally diagnosed. Experts say this mismanagement amounts to a 'silent public health crisis'.
Dr Bassel Wattar, associate professor of reproductive medicine at Anglia Ruskin University, says: 'This is a silent crisis in women's health. We see thousands of women admitted to hospital for a condition that could often be managed earlier and more effectively in the community. Guidelines and services in the NHS do not provide a clear pathway for managing acute heavy menstrual bleeding efficiently.'
Emma's story highlights the need for better awareness and understanding of heavy menstrual bleeding and its impact on women's health. By addressing this issue, we can help women like Emma lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.
