Heavy menstrual bleeding causes fatigue in menopausal women

Fatigue is a common issue for women going through menopause, often accompanied by symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. A new study from the University of Michigan suggests that heavy menstrual bleeding during this time could also contribute to feelings of tiredness. The research, published in the journal Menopause, looked at 2,329 midlife women who tracked their menstrual cycles and filled out yearly surveys from 1996 to 2005. It is believed to be the first study exploring the connection between heavy menstrual bleeding and fatigue as women transition into menopause. Lead author Sioban Harlow explains that while many studies have documented fatigue during menopause, few have looked at how changes in menstrual flow might contribute to this fatigue. The study found that as women approach menopause, many experience increased menstrual duration and volume, which can lead to iron deficiency and fatigue. Heavy menstrual bleeding can affect women physically and emotionally. It often disrupts sleep due to the need to change sanitary products frequently, especially at night. The loss of iron from excessive bleeding can further exacerbate feelings of tiredness. Harlow notes that menstruation is often stigmatized, leading to a lack of discussion and research on this topic. Many women enter menopause without understanding the changes they may face, including abnormal bleeding. This gap in information can leave women struggling without support or treatment options. The study emphasizes that heavy menstrual bleeding and fatigue are treatable issues that can significantly impact a woman's quality of life. Harlow encourages women to seek knowledgeable healthcare providers who can address these concerns. The authors call for more research on abnormal uterine bleeding during the menopause transition to better understand its effects on women’s overall health and well-being. Understanding these issues can help improve the quality of life for women experiencing menopause.