Late Menstruation: Should I Worry?
A late period will quickly lead you to the idea that you may be pregnant. However, that is only one possibility.
In this article we will tell you when to go to your doctor, or should worry if you missed a period.
A late period does not necessarily mean that you are pregnant
The theory is that a woman’s menstrual cycle lasts for 28 days, and that it is the time that will elapse between two menstrual periods. But the human body is not a robot or a clock, so women can get their period sooner or later.
Our body’s function is linked to several systems, which work together like a well-oiled machine. Therefore, the immune system, as well as metabolic, circulatory, hormonal and neuroendocrine systems, must be in perfect condition for the menstrual cycle to last exactly four weeks.
If you do not get your period at the right time, you may feel worried, or even excited that you may be pregnant. Pregnancy is the most well-known cause of late menstruation, but it is not the only one. Other factors can also affect the timing.
What are the main causes of late menstruation?
We start with the factors that trigger late menstruation that you do not have to worry about. However, you should be aware that the future does not repeat itself.
1. Stress and anxiety
Today, women are under a lot of pressure (both in working life and in social life) that affects their health. Although it is “normal” for stress to change the menstrual cycle, this is not ideal.
Maybe you are going through something that changes your period. Anxiety before a wedding, a trip, a big change, the stress associated with final exams, commitments or financial situations can directly affect hormone production.
In these cases, your period will only be a few days late or it will come when you solve the problem. It should not be a sign of other problems, but consult your doctor for safety.
2. Changes in body weight
You may notice changes in menstruation, as well as delays, if you have gained a lot of weight or lost weight. You should know that adipocytes (fat cells) play a role in hormone production, and they can jeopardize your cycle.
Obese women produce more estrogen than normal, and very thin women produce less. To reverse this problem, you should find out how much you should weigh and try to reach that goal.
3. Breastfeeding
Women who have just given birth get their period back several months later. The body must return to normal after the drastic hormonal change it went through during pregnancy and in the time after birth.
Some mothers even get their period back a year or more after giving birth. If this happens to you, you should check with your doctor to find out what is happening.
4. To stop taking birth control pills
If a woman takes birth control pills, her periods will be regular. But when for some reason she stops taking them, her body has to work naturally again, which means that the ovaries have to work on their own.
This can delay her ovulation and thus her menstruation. It is normal for this to happen once. However, you should see your doctor if you do not get your period the following month.
Causes of late menstruation that require medical treatment
In some cases, however, late menstruation may be associated with more serious health conditions or require special medical attention. This does not mean that you should worry or think negatively. Instead, you can seek professional help to deal with the possible problem, for example:
Infections and diseases
Some common diseases such as flu, cystitis and sore throat can interfere with the menstrual cycle, especially if you take medication to treat them.
2. Problems with the thyroid gland
An overactive or underactive thyroid gland can cause many imbalances, including late menstruation.
You need to take a check to find out what treatment you need, for example: medication, altered iodine intake, or even removal of the gland.
3. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is an endocrinological disease characterized by menstrual disorders and the formation of ovarian cysts. It can lead to infertility in more advanced or untreated cases.
To treat this syndrome, professionals recommend a healthier lifestyle and weight loss if necessary. Special hormonal preparations are also prescribed, depending on whether the woman wants to get pregnant in the future or not.
You should not worry if your menstrual period is up to five days too late, as the human body is not as accurate. However, longer delays can be a sign of a disorder or a problem. Once you have ruled out the “normal” situations that can lead to delayed menstruation, you should consult your doctor.
