Reasons Behind Delayed & Missed Menstruals

Missed periods can cause mounts of anxiety and stress. For most women, menstrual bleeding occurs every 21 to 35 days. However, there are few reasons for delayed or missed periods–keep reading to find out!

1. Pregnancy. Menstrual bleeding will cease in order to prevent the fertilized egg from being expelled from the body. Pregnancy tests can determine pregnancy approximately 10 days after conception.¹

2. Perimenopause. This time period marks the transition to menopause, or when your ovaries start to lose function. In this phase of womanhood, decline in estrogen and overall fertility is to be expected.

3. Adolescence. For those who recently started menstruating or girls in their teens may experience irregular cycles. However, if it has been 90 days or more since the last period, it is best to seek medical attention.²

4. Polycystic ovarian syndrome. PCOS can lead to high levels of androgen hormones. The excess of these hormones can lead to fluctuations in the regulation of the menstrual cycle.

5. Birth control. Certain birth control pills can be used to delay periods, and in some cases this is done intentionally under a provider upon patient request. With the proper dosage, continuous use of certain birth controls (vaginal rings, IUDs, etc.) can lead to delayed or missed periods.³

6. Thyroid conditions. Your thyroid is a gland that produces the thyroid hormone. When an excess of this hormone is produced, fewer and lighter menstrual cycles can be expected. 

7. Extreme dieting and exercise. Putting your body through strict caloric deficits and extensive workouts for extended periods of time can cause your body to put your menstrual bleeding on a temporary pause.

8. Stress. Stress can manifest into physical symptoms including a late period. Stress can cause a hormonal imbalance which can alter your cycle.

Hopefully you can identify one of the reasons that may be contributing to your delayed or missed period. Schedule an appointment with us to find the culprit behind your menstrual cycle irregularities and develop a tailored treatment plan.

Footnotes

1.  Pregnancy tests | Office on Women’s Health. Accessed August 25, 2023. https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/pregnancy-tests
2.  Menstruation in Girls and Adolescents: Using the Menstrual Cycle as a Vital Sign. Accessed August 26, 2023. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2015/12/menstruation-in-girls-and-adolescents-using-the-menstrual-cycle-as-a-vital-sign
3.  Birth control lets you decide when to have your period. Mayo Clinic. Accessed August 26, 2023. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/birth-control/in-depth/womens-health/art-20044044