Threatening iron deficiency after onset of first menstruation

After the first rule, the risk of iron deficiency in girls is increased

Iron deficiency can cause numerous health problems, ranging to a dangerous anemia. Girls are subject to an increased risk of iron deficiency after they have experienced their first period, according to the Association of Paediatricians (BVKJ).

According to the BVKJ, more recent studies indicate that girls have an increased risk of iron deficiency and consequent anemia in the period after their first period. It may therefore be useful "to examine the blood for iron deficiency in girls about three years after the first rule - for example in the context of the check-up J2." If necessary, appropriate countermeasures can be taken as early as possible.

Girls are often struggling with iron deficiency in the early years after their period starts. (Image: kellyreekolibry / fotolia.com)

Consequences of iron deficiency

Possible consequences of iron deficiency are, according to Dr. Hermann Josef Kahl, pediatrician and federal press spokesman of the BVKJ "Unconcentration, declining school performance, daytime sleepiness, paleness, loss of appetite, brittle fingernails and hair, torn corners of the mouth and chapped lips and restless legs or restless leg syndrome." Girls in the first Years after the onset of the period are particularly at risk, especially if they suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding.

Recognize and act on iron deficiency

With the help of a blood test, according to Dr. med. Kahl determine to what extent an iron deficiency exists. If this is the case, "a change in diet and, if necessary, dietary supplements can help to rebuild a supply in the body," the expert continues. According to the BVKJ, foods such as meat, green leafy vegetables, beetroot, watercress, fish, eggs, wholegrain cereals, legumes and nuts are high in iron.

Even overweight children are at risk

In addition to girls in the first years after the onset of menstrual bleeding, obese and adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are also at risk of iron deficiency, the BVKJ reports. (Fp)