Why is my period so late?

Irregular menstruation is something many women encounter, especially delayed menstruation, which is most worrisome for women because many are sexually active, and delayed menstruation could very likely mean an unexpected pregnancy. In fact, there are many reasons for delayed menstruation; below are several main causes of irregular menstruation for women.

　　From a broad perspective, the main reasons for delayed menstruation include two: one is pregnancy, and the other is menstrual delay caused by irregular menstruation. Generally speaking, a normal menstrual cycle is 28-35 days, a delay of about 7 days is still within the normal range, but if the delay exceeds 14 days and menstruation has not yet occurred, women can use a test strip to self-check for pregnancy. If the test shows no pregnancy, women should pay attention at this time.

1. Pregnancy factors

Women of childbearing age who have had sexual intercourse often first suspect pregnancy when their period is late. How to determine if you are pregnant? If your menstrual cycle has always been regular with no signs of delay, and you experience some pregnancy symptoms, you should use an early pregnancy test strip to test your urine on the fifth day after the missed period (or the fifth day from the expected start of menstruation). If the result is positive, a gynecological pelvic examination should be conducted.

2. Endocrine disorders

In general, when women experience delayed menstruation, the first consideration should be whether there is an endocrine disorder. This is especially true for adolescent girls and menopausal women, where hormone imbalances can cause anovulatory bleeding, leading to irregular menstruation during the onset of menstruation or approaching menopause. This condition is commonly seen in polycystic ovary syndrome, particularly when accompanied by acne, obesity, hirsutism, and female infertility, making it important to check whether the endocrine system is functioning normally. This is because endocrine disorders can cause menstrual irregularities. If abnormal menstruation occurs, women should promptly seek treatment.

3. Bad living habits lead to

Some women like to stay up late, drink cold beverages, eat cold foods, or excessively diet. These unhealthy lifestyle habits can significantly affect normal menstruation in women. A regular lifestyle can help maintain regular menstruation. Additionally, changes in the living environment can also affect the arrival of menstruation; for example, colder weather may cause a delay in menstruation.

4. Emotions cause delayed menstruation

Summer weather is hot, and people can easily become irritable. It is recommended that women avoid being alone when feeling upset, spend more time with friends, and participate in outdoor activities. The more hidden and boring the place is, the more one feels stuffy. Develop regular living habits, go to bed and get up on time, and avoid sleeping in.

5. Influence of gynecological diseases

Some women's diseases, such as ovarian dysfunction, can affect the normal arrival of menstruation and may cause delayed periods.

　　Premature ovarian failure: is caused by abnormal ovarian function. It often manifests as delayed menstruation, infrequent periods, amenorrhea, and infertility. Symptoms similar to menopause may occur, such as vaginal dryness, difficulty during intercourse, hot flashes, and insomnia.

　　Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: In addition to infrequent menstruation, it also features three characteristics: anovulation, obesity, and hirsutism. This condition can not only cause menstrual irregularities and infertility, but also likely increases the risk of hypertension, diabetes, and endometrial cancer.

** Editor's reminder: If menstrual delay occurs only occasionally once or twice, and there are no other accompanying symptoms, it does not fall under the category of menstrual disorders. Menstrual intervals longer than 35 days are called oligomenorrhea, and amenorrhea is defined as the absence of menstruation for more than 3 menstrual cycles. Since amenorrhea leads to anovulation, it can also cause problems such as osteoporosis and endometrial hyperplasia, which must be taken seriously. A comprehensive examination should be conducted immediately at the hospital for proper treatment.