What Can Cause Missed or Late Periods Besides Pregnancy?
Pregnancy is one of the major reasons for delayed pregnancy. Most women take delayed periods as the first sign of pregnancy. But is pregnancy the only reason you have delayed periods?
There are so many reasons why you have delayed periods. This blog discusses on causes of delayed periods (menstruation).
Some of these reasons include stress, menopause, sudden weight changes, excessive exercise, among others.
What Can Delay Your Periods?
Stress: Psychological stress can disrupt hormone levels, affecting the regularity of menstrual cycles.
Menopause: As women approach menopause, the hormonal changes can cause irregular periods and eventual cessation of menstruation.
Sudden Weight Changes: Significant weight loss or gain can disrupt hormone production and lead to irregular periods or missed cycles.
Excessive Exercise: Intense or prolonged physical activity can interfere with hormone balance, leading to irregular menstruation or even amenorrhea (absence of menstruation).
Dietary Issues: Poor nutrition or extreme dieting can impact hormone levels and menstrual regularity.
Medical Conditions: Certain health conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or reproductive system issues can cause menstrual irregularities.
Medications: Some medications, including certain contraceptives, antidepressants, and antipsychotics, may affect menstrual cycles.
Travel: Jet lag and changes in routine associated with travel can temporarily disrupt the menstrual cycle.
Hormonal Imbalance: Any imbalance in hormones, such as estrogen, progesterone, or thyroid hormones, can lead to menstrual irregularities.
Perimenopause: The transitional phase before menopause can cause fluctuations in hormone levels, leading to irregular periods.
FAQ
What is a missed period?
A missed period is when you go without a period based on your menstrual cycles. The average menstrual cycle can range from 28 to 38 days.
Can I test pregnant if my periods get late by 5 days?
To test whether you are pregnant after missing your period, it's important to take a pregnancy test after a week. You can also speculate you are pregnant if your period occurs in time all the time.
How do I know that I have late periods?
You Wii know that you have late periods if you fail to experience the normal symptoms you get before your periods. Some of these symptoms include mood swings, tender breasts, and nausea.
Summary
Periods are not just delayed by pregnancy, age weight, and chronic conditions can also cause delayed periods. Some of the causes of delayed periods can be avoided such as heavy weight and stress. Learning to manage every cause will help you expect regular periods as usual.
