Reasons for Delayed Periods

A delayed period can be concerning, but it's often caused by common, manageable factors. Understanding the potential reasons can help you determine when it's normal variation and when to seek medical advice.

What It Means

A delayed period refers to a menstrual cycle that starts later than expected based on your usual pattern. While a cycle is considered late if it's more than 7 days past your expected start date, occasional variations are normal.

Common Causes

Several factors can cause your period to be delayed:

Lifestyle Factors

• Stress: High levels of physical or emotional stress can delay ovulation
• Weight changes: Significant weight loss or gain can affect hormone production
• Exercise: Intense exercise routines can impact menstrual cycles
• Travel: Changes in time zones and routine can temporarily affect your cycle
• Sleep changes: Disrupted sleep patterns can influence hormones

Medical Factors

• Pregnancy: The most common cause of a missed period
• Breastfeeding: Can delay the return of periods after childbirth
• Perimenopause: Natural transition before menopause can cause irregular cycles
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Can cause irregular or missed periods
• Thyroid disorders: Can affect menstrual regularity
• Medications: Some medications can impact your cycle

What Is Normal

It's normal for periods to vary by a few days each month. Occasional delays due to stress, travel, or minor lifestyle changes are common and usually resolve on their own.

What Is Not Normal

You should seek medical advice if you experience:

• No period for 90 days or more (if not pregnant, breastfeeding, or in menopause)
• Consistently irregular cycles
• Sudden changes in cycle length
• Other symptoms accompanying delayed periods (excessive hair growth, weight changes, etc.)

When to See a Doctor

Consult a healthcare provider if:

• Your period is more than 7 days late and you're not pregnant
• You've missed three or more periods in a row
• Your cycles have become consistently irregular
• You're experiencing other concerning symptoms
• You're trying to conceive and want to understand your cycle better

Tracking your cycles can help identify patterns and determine if delays are occasional or part of a larger pattern that needs medical attention.