Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Linked to Increased Fatigue in Women

During the menopause, many women experience fatigue and exhaustion, which can be exacerbated by abnormal menstrual bleeding patterns. A recent study highlights that this phenomenon is not uncommon and deserves more attention in both research and media discussions.

Women going through menopause often report feeling tired, a condition that may be attributed to various factors, including sleep disturbances that are prevalent in this life stage. A survey conducted among over 4,000 women revealed that sleep issues and psychological stressors were the leading complaints, with hot flashes ranking lower on the list of concerns.

Research led by a team from the University of Michigan has shed light on the connection between heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) and prolonged menstrual bleeding (PMB) during the menopause and increased fatigue levels. This study examined menstrual calendars of more than 2,300 middle-aged women and tracked instances of HMB and PMB over time. Participants were asked annually about four symptoms related to fatigue: lethargy, tiredness, lack of energy, and loss of motivation.

The results indicated that women experiencing HMB or PMB in the six months prior to their assessment had a significantly higher likelihood of reporting fatigue symptoms--62% more likely to feel tired and 44% more likely to feel lethargic. This correlation persisted even after accounting for other potential influencing factors such as ethnicity, body mass index (BMI), and sleep problems.

Despite the prevalence of these symptoms, the issue of abnormal uterine bleeding during menopause has not been thoroughly investigated. The findings of this research emphasize the need for greater awareness and understanding of how menstrual health can impact overall well-being during this transitional phase.

Healthcare providers are encouraged to recognize the potential impact of heavy menstrual bleeding on women's quality of life, particularly in relation to fatigue. By addressing these concerns, medical professionals can better support women navigating the challenges of menopause.