Exploring the Multifaceted Impact of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Women's Health

Iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) are common in women of reproductive age and precipitate deleterious impacts on obstetrical and gynecologic clinical care, including patient-reported outcomes and morbidity/mortality endpoints. Heavy menstrual bleeding, pregnancy, and postpartum hemorrhage are leading causes of ID and IDA in women. Importantly, anemia is a late-stage manifestation of ID, and clinical trial data confirm that managing ID with iron supplementation early, prior to the onset of anemia, improves patient outcomes. It is therefore essential for clinicians working in women's health to be aware of the prevalence and clinical gravity of ID and IDA, as well as the therapeutic imperative for iron supplementation.