Which is a common cause of iron deficiency in women?

Menorrhagia, or heavy menstrual bleeding, is a prevalent cause of iron deficiency in women, particularly during their reproductive years. This condition can lead to significant blood loss each month, surpassing the body's iron stores and resulting in anemia due to insufficient iron for hemoglobin synthesis. Given that women of childbearing age are already at risk for iron deficiency because of their monthly menstrual cycles, menorrhagia exacerbates this risk considerably.

While dietary deficiency can contribute to iron deficiency, it is less common as a standalone cause in women, especially in developed countries where dietary choices can typically meet iron requirements. Peptic ulcers and hemorrhoids can also cause gastrointestinal bleeding, but these are less frequent in comparison to the significant blood loss seen with menorrhagia, particularly among younger women.