Premium
Prevalence of heavy menstrual bleeding and experiences of affected women in a European patient survey
Author(s) -
Fraser Ian S.,
Mansour Diana,
Breymann Christian,
Hoffman Camille,
Mezzacasa Anna,
Petraglia Felice
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
international journal of gynecology and obstetrics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.895
H-Index - 97
eISSN - 1879-3479
pISSN - 0020-7292
DOI - 10.1016/j.ijgo.2014.09.027
Subject(s) - medicine , medical prescription , iron deficiency anemia , menstrual bleeding , pediatrics , anemia , population , iron deficiency , family medicine , uterine bleeding , gynecology , environmental health , pharmacology
Objective To examine the prevalence and impact of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) among women in Europe, and their experience of HMB assessment and management. Methods An internet‐based survey was conducted among women (aged 18–57 years) in five European countries between January and February 2012. The prevalence of HMB among the general population was determined in a short survey, and women who had been diagnosed with HMB were then asked to complete an extended survey about their diagnosis and symptoms. Results Overall, 4506 women responded, of whom 1225 (27.2%) had experienced two or more predefined HMB symptoms within the previous year. Of these women, 564 (46.0%) had never consulted a physician. Among 330 women who completed the detailed survey, 208 (63.0%) had ever been diagnosed with iron deficiency or iron‐deficiency anemia. Symptoms associated with iron deficiency were used to help confirm a diagnosis in 83 (39.9%) women. Only 152 (46.1%) of the 330 patients with confirmed HMB had received prescription medication for iron deficiency. Conclusion Many women affected by HMB do not seek medical help, and few of those who do consult physicians report that they have received appropriate treatment. HMB continues to be underdiagnosed and poorly treated.