A typical haemoglobin (the iron-laden protein in red blood cells) count ranges from 115-150. Having experienced HMB and fatigue for years, Connie’s haemoglobin levels were tested repeatedly – recording a score between 15-30.

 Despite these alarming results, Connie’s GP never expressed any concern, once labelling her a ‘resistant patient’ on a referral to a gynecologist.

Connie, a schoolteacher, often struggled to get out bed each morning. Yet she dismissed her fatigue as simply something you had to put up with as a ‘busy working mum.’

Connie’s story of silent acceptance is emblematic of many women’s experience with HMB. In her own words, she says: “When your own doctor treats heavy bleeding as normal, you feel you just have to accept it and live with it.”