Iron Deficiency in Women: Symptoms and When to Test

Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide and disproportionately affects women, particularly those of reproductive age. Understanding the symptoms helps with early detection. Common symptoms include persistent fatigue and low energy, pale skin, shortness of breath during physical activity, dizziness or lightheadedness, cold hands and feet, brittle nails and hair loss, restless legs, and difficulty concentrating. Women are at higher risk due to menstrual blood loss (heavy periods are a leading cause), pregnancy (iron demands increase significantly), and dietary insufficiency (vegetarian and vegan diets require careful iron planning). Diagnosis requires a blood test, typically including a complete blood count (CBC) and ferritin level. Ferritin measures your stored iron and is more sensitive for detecting early deficiency than hemoglobin alone. Many women with low ferritin experience symptoms even before becoming anemic. Treatment depends on severity. Mild deficiency may be addressed with dietary changes and oral iron supplements. Moderate to severe deficiency may require higher-dose supplements or, in some cases, intravenous iron infusions. Your physician can order the appropriate blood tests through an in-person or telehealth visit and create a management plan. Follow-up testing is typically done after 3 months. *This article is for informational purposes only.*

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Content reviewed by licensed Canadian physicians. Last updated February 2026.