Women with hemoglobin levels below 12 grams per deciliter of blood often have anemia, which can result from low iron, according to Mayo Clinic. Iron deficiency can be dangerous because iron produces the hemoglobin that keeps oxygen flowing throughout the body, notes WebMD.
Individuals suffering from anemia have smaller and paler red blood cells than the average person, states Mayo Clinic. They also have fewer red blood cells, reports WebMD. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin. Therefore, the less red blood cells a person has, the less hemoglobin she possesses.
Women have a higher chance of developing anemia if they are pregnant or experience heavy menstrual bleeding, according to WebMD. Symptoms of anemia include headaches, lack of concentration and trouble breathing.
