The Psychology of Deference: A Personal Journey to Understanding Iron Deficiency
Thank you to the Mainline Wellness patient who shared this experience with us at Mainline.
A Visit to the Doctor's Office
"My daughter is currently navigating teenage angst—skin issues, fluctuating moods, and, of course, exhaustion. We went in to address a rash that had developed under her nose and spread to her cheeks. Turns out, the skincare products marketed to young girls are not the magic cures they claim to be. The rash was a classic case of perioral dermatitis, likely caused by over-the-counter beauty products. The solution? A simple regimen: cleanse with water and a non-foaming soap, and seal in moisture with vaseline.
While we were there, I decided to bring up something else I’d noticed: my daughter’s energy levels have plummeted since she started menstruating. She’s more tired than usual, often napping during the day, and her diet consists of low-protein foods. Concerned, I asked the doctor to test her iron levels.
Standing My Ground
The doctor, a young female physician, responded with a quick, "Why?"
I explained that my daughter was fatigued, seemed to be sleeping more, and had developed an aversion to protein-rich foods. Reluctantly, the doctor agreed to order the test.
Now, standing my ground in front of a doctor—a medical professional with years of training—was hard. This physician had already handled my daughter’s skincare issue expertly, and I felt a little uncomfortable asking for something extra. When she seemed confused by my request, my first instinct was to back down.
Why is it that so many of us—especially women—experience this hesitation when we ask for medical tests or second opinions?
The Bigger Picture: Iron Deficiency and the Healthcare System
I realize that it isn’t just me. Many people—especially women and mothers—often feel they need to defer to medical professionals, even when they have valid concerns. It’s a kind of psychological deference, where we feel hesitant to push for tests or procedures we believe are necessary.
My daughter’s fatigue could be a sign of iron deficiency, and it’s an issue that should be addressed early. The good news is that recent shifts in healthcare, such as updated markers for low iron in Ontario and increasing awareness of the issues surrounding anemia, mean it’s easier to spot iron deficiency now than ever before.
So, why was it so hard to ask for an iron test? Was the doctor simply unfamiliar with the symptoms of ID in teenagers? Or was it just easier to dismiss the idea of a test rather than give in to a concerned parent’s request?
The Takeaway: Advocating for Health
I am grateful that I pushed and that my daughter’s iron levels are now being tested. But this experience also serves as a reminder of the psychological barriers we often face in healthcare and why it's been nearly a 50 year journey for me to healthy iron levels and more energy. I hope we can do better for the next generation.
We can’t wait to see you on your next visit. And remember, if you have any questions or want to share your experience with us, don’t hesitate to reach out!
January Appointment Openings!
Please contact one of our clinics in False Creek and Surrey. We have openings available and can often accommodate last-minute requests. We are here to help you feel better!
About Mainline Wellness
Mainline’s mission is to offer fast, safe, friendly, and comfortable iron infusion services for patients and referring physicians across the Lower Mainland. By reducing wait times and providing timely access, the Clinic aims to boost patient well-being and overall physical health while decreasing the burden placed on hospital infusion services.
Do you have questions about iron deficiency or iron deficiency anemia? Email Mainline Wellness at info@mainlinewellness.ca
Do you think you might be iron deficient?
If you experience any of these symptoms, you may have low iron or be anemic. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider to get your iron checked. Taking steps to treat iron deficiency and anemia is simple. If you have questions or wish to find out more about how an iron infusion may help, the team at Mainline Wellness is happy to help and can be reached by phone at 604-876-2344 or email at info@mainlinewellness.ca.
Here are some symptoms to look for:
Low energy
Chronic napping
Pale skin
Heavy or irregular periods
Cold hands and/or feet
Restless legs
Mainline's Patient-Centred Approach
At Mainline Wellness, we are focused on improving the awareness and understanding of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in Canada to help more patients get the help they need – preoperative or otherwise.
We are committed to offering safe, timely, and accessible ER physician and nurse supervised iron infusions. Speak to your healthcare provider to see if iron infusions may be helpful for you. Treatment can begin within one week.
Our Locations
Vancouver
672 Leg in Boot Square
Vancouver, BC V5Z 4B4
by Appointment Only
Phone: 604-876-2344
Mainline Vancouver is accessible by pedestrian traffic only. Street parking is available nearby, and parking lots are accessible from these streets:
- Cambie Street (7 minute walk)
- 2nd Ave (3 minute walk)
- Moberly Road (1 minute walk)
Surrey
Suite 301, 9639 137A Street
City Center 2
Surrey, BC V3T 0M1
by Appointment Only
Phone: 604-900-7007 Ext. 100
Mainline Surrey is located in City Centre 2, immediately adjacent to City Centre 1 at the heart of the Health and Technology District in Surrey, British Columbia. We are on the 3rd floor, Suite 301, within iScope.
Patient Safety
Our clinic is run according to the BC College of Physicians and Surgeons Class 3 Facility Safety and Equipment guidelines.
All clinical staff have active Advanced Cardiac Life Support certification and years of experience working in urban emergency departments.