G6PD deficiency in women: symptoms and care

G6PD deficiency is inherited and affects an enzyme that helps red blood cells withstand oxidative stress. Some women have reduced activity without obvious daily problems; others notice episodes after infection, certain medicines or other triggers. Haemolysis can cause fatigue, breathlessness, a fast heartbeat, yellow eyes or skin, pale skin and dark urine. Menstrual blood loss can add to anaemia symptoms, so clinicians may consider the full history rather than attributing every symptom to G6PD deficiency.

Tell every doctor, dentist and pharmacist about the diagnosis before treatment. Keep an up-to-date list of medicines and ask about pain relief, antibiotics, antimalarials, supplements and herbal products. Seek advice early during an infection and avoid self-treating with a product whose ingredients have not been checked. If pregnancy is possible or planned, raise G6PD deficiency at the first visit. A Blood Test can help evaluate anaemia or confirm enzyme activity when a clinician considers it appropriate.

Arrange urgent assessment for sudden yellowing, dark urine, pronounced pallor, severe tiredness, dizziness, breathlessness or a pounding heartbeat, especially after a new medicine or infection. Go to emergency care for fainting, chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, confusion or rapid worsening.

Ask whether your symptoms could reflect anaemia, whether testing should be repeated, which medicines and products need checking, and what to tell a future maternity team.