India, Dec. 11 -- Does your period cycle last longer than usual? It is often overlooked, but prolonged bleeding can point towards an underlying condition that may require your attention, particularly iron deficiency. To understand how the two are connected and why this deficiency affects the cycle, HT Lifestyle reached out to Dr Manjusha Goel, lead consultant, dept of obstetrics and gynaecology at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, who explained the link and what women should watch out for.

She explained, "When iron levels drop in the body, it reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood. The deficiency can disrupt normal hormonal balance and weaken uterine muscle function, both of which are important for regulating menstrual flow." It needs...