By Dr. Robert Wool
Women’s
menstrual cycles typically range from 21–35
days, counted from the first day of a period to the first day of the next one. Even
if you are lucky enough to have a cycle that is regular and predictable, there
will still likely be times when something throws it off. Below we explore some
of the most common answers to the question, “Why is my period late?”
Pregnancy
Let’s
start with the most obvious reason, which is pregnancy. A missed period is
often the first inkling many women have that they are pregnant. If you’ve had
sex in the past few weeks, even if you use birth control, this is the
possibility you should investigate first. Most birth control options
have some level of failure, even when used correctly. An over-the-counter pregnancy
test is the easiest way to find out if this is the case.
It's
important to note that IUDs have a small risk of ectopic pregnancy, which is
when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus. This is a dangerous
condition, so if you have a positive pregnancy test and have an IUD, consult
your women’s health provider quickly.
Perimenopause
As
women get closer to menopause, a period known as perimenopause, many find their
periods become more irregular and unpredictable. Perimenopause can last from
less than a year to as long as a decade. You may find your periods become
heavier or lighter, or you skip some months and then have several close
together. Although this is common, talk to your women’s health provider if you
have questions or need help managing any of the signs of menopause, from irregular
periods to hot flashes, mood swings or sleep issues.
Lifestyle
Factors
Anything
that affects your body’s ability to produce or regulate hormones can ultimately
affect your menstrual cycle. This includes lifestyle considerations such as
high stress or extreme exercise. For example, if you are training intensely for
a marathon or another sporting event, you may find your period is late or
absent during that time. Even something like a change in your schedule, such as
jet lag, can impact the timing of your period.
Your weight can also impact your menstrual cycle. Obesity affects the regulation of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which both play a role in menstruation. Similarly, if you are severely underweight, your body may lack the fat and nutrients it needs for regular hormone production. Rapid weight loss due to illness, crash dieting or other causes can also disrupt your body’s hormone production and result in a delayed or missed period.
Medications
If you have recently started taking a new medication, there is a possibility it may interfere with your menstrual cycle. The list includes birth control, antidepressants and antipsychotics, chemotherapy drugs and others. Check the possible side effects of your medications or talk to your prescribing doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Health Conditions and Diseases
There
are several chronic health conditions and diseases that can affect menstruation,
such as:
·
Polycystic
Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
·
Primary
Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)
·
Pituitary
tumors
·
Diseases
of the adrenal or thyroid glands
·
Ovarian
cysts
·
Liver
dysfunction
·
Diabetes
Acute
health events—such as a heart attack, meningitis or pneumonia—can trigger
disruptions to your cycle as well. If you have any other symptoms in addition
to a late or missed period, schedule an appointment with your healthcare
provider.
Here to Help
If
you are concerned about a late or missed period, give us a call to talk to a provider or request an appointment. We can help determine
the cause and recommend treatment if necessary.
