This is a number, basically looked at by computer, that tries to estimate the Red cell Distribution Width.
Most of the time, red cells are generally the same size, so a larger than expected number means the range of the width in your red blood cells is larger than the norm; this usually is inconsequential, particularly if you are making a lot of new red blood cells because of anemia (newer red cells or immature cells tend to be larger in width and will skew the RDW).
The hematocrit and MCV are more important numbers to look at in your case, to see if you have iron deficiency anemia, as can be seen in people with histories of heavy bleeding.
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M.D. - Neurological Surgery