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ZOE Science & Nutrition

Recap: Menstruation - what everyone needs to know | Jen Gunter & Sarah Berry

Mar 4, 2025
Dr. Jen Gunter, a physician specializing in women's health, joins Professor Sarah Berry to bravely tackle the taboo topic of menstruation. They discuss important signs of heavy bleeding and the risk of iron deficiency many women face. Gunter emphasizes the need for open conversations about menstrual pain, urging listeners to seek help when cramps disrupt daily life. The duo also sheds light on effective treatments for menstrual cramps and highlights the hidden links between periods and overall health. Let's break the silence together!
14:34

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Recognizing signs of heavy menstrual bleeding is crucial for addressing potential iron deficiency and advocating for appropriate medical evaluation.
  • Acknowledging that severe menstrual pain isn't normal can guide women toward effective management options and prevent long-term health issues.

Deep dives

Understanding Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Heavy menstrual bleeding is a significant concern for many women, defined by specific signs such as soaking through menstrual products onto clothing or the need to change pads or tampons every one to two hours. These symptoms can indicate underlying issues, including high rates of iron deficiency, especially among young women in the U.S. and U.K. Approximately 40% of women aged 22 and younger are iron deficient, which often goes unaddressed as many do not exhibit anemia symptoms. Recognizing these signs is crucial for advocating for proper medical evaluation and treatment to prevent health complications related to iron deficiency.

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