Top 14 Reasons Why Your Period Is Late: a Doctor explains

Top 14  Reasons Why Your Period Is Late: a Doctor explains  

We’ve all been there, a late period is a complete jump scare! The first thing that may come to mind.. ‘am I pregnant’..? Late periods can also  be a source of stress and anxiety for many women and menstruators and it's important to understand the underlying causes in order to address them the best way. The truth is, there are many different factors that can disrupt your menstrual cycle and cause your period to be late. We’ll be exploring the top 14 possible reasons why. 

1. Pregnancy: The most common reason for a late period is pregnancy. If you have had unprotected sex and your period is late, it is important to take a pregnancy test to confirm. If you are pregnant, it's important to see a healthcare provider to discuss your options and start prenatal care.
2. Stress: Stress can be a major disruptor of the menstrual cycle, and can cause your period to be late. To address stress-related menstrual irregularities, it's important to incorporate stress-management techniques such as yoga, meditation, or therapy into your daily routine.
3. Weight changes: Rapid weight loss or gain can affect your menstrual cycle and cause your period to be late. To address this, it's important to focus on maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
4. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a condition in which the ovaries produce too much androgen, a male hormone. This can cause irregular periods and make it difficult to predict when your period will arrive. To address PCOS, it's important to work with a healthcare provider to manage symptoms through a combination of medication, diet and exercise.
5. Thyroid problems: The thyroid gland plays a role in regulating your menstrual cycle. If the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can cause your period to be late. To address thyroid-related menstrual irregularities, it's important to see a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
6. Birth control: Birth control pills, patches, and shots can all affect your menstrual cycle and cause your period to be late. It's important to work with your healthcare provider to find the right birth control method for you and have regular check-ins to monitor any changes in your menstrual cycle.
7. Medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants and blood pressure medications, can affect your menstrual cycle and cause your period to be late. If you're taking medications and your period is late, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider about possible side effects and consider alternative treatment options.
8. Menopause: As you approach menopause, your periods may become irregular and may be late. This is a natural part of the aging process and should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can advise on available options such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to help manage menopausal symptoms.
9. Illness: An illness or infection can affect your menstrual cycle and cause your period to be late. If you're experiencing other symptoms, such as fever or abdominal pain, it's important to see a doctor for an evaluation and follow the recommended treatment plan.
10. Travel: Traveling across time zones or through different climates can affect your menstrual cycle and cause your period to be late. 
11. Lifestyle changes: Major changes in your lifestyle, such as starting a new job or moving to a new location, can disrupt your menstrual cycle and cause your period to be late. It's important to be mindful of how these changes may be impacting your body and to try to maintain a sense of routine and stability in your daily life.
12. Hormonal imbalances: Your menstrual cycle is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones. If any of these hormones are out of balance, it can cause your period to be late. Hormonal imbalances can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, weight changes, and certain medical conditions. It's important to work with a healthcare provider to address any hormonal imbalances through medication, supplements, or lifestyle changes.
13. Genetics: Some women may have a genetic predisposition to menstrual irregularities, which can cause periods to be late or missing. If you have a history of menstrual irregularities in your family, it's important to discuss this with your healthcare provider and consider genetic testing.
14. Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental toxins, such as lead or pesticides, can disrupt your hormonal balance and cause your period to be late. It's important to be aware of environmental toxins in your living and working spaces and take steps to reduce your exposure, such as using natural cleaning products and eating organic produce.

It's important to remember that every woman's body is different and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. We always recommend speaking with your  healthcare provider or GP  to find the best course of action for you.

12 hour shift and have just started your period? You can’t carry a hot water bottle, so wear this instead.  Great for those that are on their feet all day! 

Disclaimer, this is strictly not medical advice and for educational use only! If you have any concerns, always speak to your healthcare provider/Doctor first.