A menstrual cycle that’s off schedule can be a sign of some underlying health issues apart from pregnancy. Everybody thinks that they are pregnant when their period is late or they skip a period. However, there are several reasons for a missed or late period. Here are five reasons to consider if you missed your period lately:
1. Birth Control
Women taking extended-cycle birth control pills won’t experience menstruation on a typical 28-day cycle. Extended birth control pills work for 91-days, which means your period will come every three months. If you are taking hormonal birth control pills like intrauterine devices (IUDs) and the Depo-Provera shot, you might experience irregular or late periods.
2. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a medical condition where the ovaries have more follicles than usual. Check out for the classic symptoms of PCOS:
- Excess Weight Gain
- Increased levels of male hormones like androgen, which can cause thick hair growth on the face and breasts.
However, these symptoms are not enough to determine whether or not you have PCOS. Visit an OBGYN in case you have missed or late periods lately.
3. Stress
When you have higher levels of cortisol, it can affect the hormones that cause ovulation and periods. The best remedy to this is to manage your stress before it’s out of control. You might want to consider these simple steps for natural stress relief:
- Get that extra hour of sleep if you need it
- Go for a brisk walk for 30 minutes
- Enjoy a warm cup of Chamomile tea
- Diffuse some lavender oil in your room
- Take care of your emotional health
4. Perimenopause
Women generally experience menopause at the age of 51. However, some women can go through a transitional period known as perimenopause during their 40s. This can cause women to experience delayed periods that are 38 or 40 days apart.
5. Diabetes & Thyroid
Sometimes diabetes and hypothyroidism can cause irregular periods. You might want to get a T3, T4, TSH test if you are suspecting a Thyroid imbalance. To check your insulin resistance and diabetes, your doctor might recommend an HbA1c test and fasting glucose sugar.
Apart from these reasons, if you are planning to get pregnant, you will be missing your period. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, get a diagnosis from your OBGYN.
FAQ’s
2. What is PCOS and how does it impact periods?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition where the ovaries contain more follicles than usual. This hormonal imbalance can lead to symptoms such as excess weight gain and increased levels of male hormones like androgen, which may cause thick hair growth on the face and chest. These hormonal disruptions can result in irregular or missed periods.
3. Can stress cause my period to be late?
Yes, high levels of stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which may interfere with the hormones responsible for ovulation and menstruation. This disruption can cause delayed or missed periods. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, adequate sleep, and regular physical activity can help maintain a regular menstrual cycle.
4. What is perimenopause and how does it affect menstruation?
Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, typically occurring in women during their 40s. During this period, hormonal fluctuations can cause changes in menstrual cycles, including periods that are longer or shorter than usual, skipped periods, or more frequent periods. These changes are a natural part of the aging process and indicate the approach of menopause.
5. How do diabetes and thyroid disorders influence menstrual cycles?
Conditions like diabetes and thyroid disorders can impact menstrual regularity. For instance, hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) can lead to irregular or missed periods due to hormonal imbalances. Similarly, diabetes can affect hormone levels and insulin sensitivity, potentially disrupting the menstrual cycle. Regular monitoring and management of these conditions can help maintain menstrual health.
6. Is it normal for periods to be irregular in adolescence?
Yes, during adolescence, it's common for menstrual cycles to be irregular as the body undergoes hormonal adjustments. It may take several years for the menstrual cycle to become regular. However, if irregularities persist beyond the first few years or are accompanied by other symptoms, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider.
7. Can excessive exercise lead to missed periods?
Intense physical activity, especially when combined with inadequate nutrition, can lead to a condition known as hypothalamic amenorrhea, where the brain stops signaling the ovaries to release eggs. This can result in missed periods. Maintaining a balanced diet and moderating exercise intensity can help prevent this condition.
8. How does significant weight change affect menstruation?
Both significant weight loss and weight gain can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to irregular or missed periods. Extreme low body fat can signal the body to conserve energy, halting ovulation. Conversely, excess body fat can lead to higher estrogen levels, which may also interfere with the menstrual cycle.
9. Can medications impact my menstrual cycle?
Yes, certain medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, and chemotherapy drugs, can affect menstrual regularity. These medications can influence hormone levels or ovarian function, leading to delayed or missed periods. If you notice changes in your menstrual cycle after starting a new medication, consult your healthcare provider.
10. When should I consult a doctor about missed periods?
If you experience missed periods for three consecutive cycles or notice other symptoms such as excessive hair growth, severe acne, or unexplained weight changes, it's important to consult a healthcare provider. A thorough evaluation can help identify underlying conditions like PCOS, thyroid disorders, or other health issues affecting your menstrual cycle.