Finnish researchers have discovered that iron supplementation can improve the quality of life of women with heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB).

The study followed 236 women who were being treated for HMB with a hysterectomy or an IUD. Twenty-seven per cent of the women were anaemic and 60 per cent were considered severely iron deficient, yet only eight per cent of those with anaemia were taking an iron supplement. Following treatment, the women who were originally anaemic reported an increase in energy and a reduction in anxiety. This finding suggests that women with HMB should be routinely screened for anaemia and offered iron supplements early on to maximise improvements in quality of life.