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Low ferritin levels in women: symptoms, norms and treatment.

Writer: didenkunatalya
didenkunatalya
2 hours ago
2 min read

Why is ferritin more important than hemoglobin? A guide to women's health.

For years, many women blame fatigue, hair loss and apathy on stress or on “just this pace of life”. Often, however, the cause is a hidden iron deficiency.

In gynecology, we pay special attention to the level of ferritin, because it is ferritin that shows the body's real iron stores.

What is ferritin and why is it important?

If hemoglobin is the “money in your wallet” that you spend right now, ferritin is your “bank account”. It is a protein complex in which iron is deposited (stored) in the tissues.

A normal ferritin level is needed for:

  • Reproductive health: hormone synthesis and preparation for pregnancy.

  • Beauty: thick hair, strong nails and a fresh complexion.

  • Energy: supplying cells with oxygen.

Symptoms of deficiency: check yourself

Even if your hemoglobin is within the normal range, low ferritin (latent iron deficiency) can show up as:

  1. Constant sleepiness and weakness.

  2. Hair loss and brittle hair.

  3. Pale skin and dark circles under the eyes.

  4. Shortness of breath with minimal physical exertion.

  5. Cravings for unusual smells (acetone, paint) or foods (ice, chalk).

Why do levels drop? (A gynecologist's view)

Women are at risk for several main reasons:

  • Heavy periods: the main cause of iron loss.

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: a huge use of resources for the baby's growth.

  • Fibroids and endometriosis: conditions that cause blood loss.

  • Diets: insufficient iron intake from food.

Important: Laboratory reference values often start at 10–15 ng/ml. However, for optimal health, doctors recommend a level close to your ideal weight (but not less than 40–60 ng/ml).

What to do if your ferritin is low?

Don't rush to buy supplements on your own! Excess iron is just as toxic as a deficiency.

  1. Book an appointment with a gynecologist: pathological blood loss must be ruled out.

  2. Get a set of tests: ferritin, CBC (complete blood count), TIBC (total iron-binding capacity) and transferrin.

  3. Adjust your diet: red meat, offal and liver are the best sources of heme iron.

  4. Take the prescribed treatment: your doctor will choose the right medication and dosage for your needs.



 
 
 

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