Pregnancy is the first thing women think of when their period is delayed. In many cases, however, simple changes to your everyday routine are to blame and being mindful of them can get your period back on track.
Most women who haven’t reached menopause usually have a period every 28 days. However, a healthy menstrual cycle can range from every 21 to 35 days.
If your period doesn’t fall within these ranges, it could be because of one of the following five reasons.
- Stress
If you are dealing with a big move like death, breakup, or something that makes you feel bad, it could be the cause of missed or delayed period. Stress can lead to illness or sudden weight gain or loss, all of which can impact your cycle.
- Illness
Short illnesses and chronic conditions can cause your period to be delayed. If you think this is the reason that your period is late, talk to your practitioner to help you pinpoint the condition, find an appropriate treatment, and then determine when your period is likely to return.
- Change in medication
When your doctor changes or introduces a medication, ask about potential side effects. Some, like antidepressants, antipsychotics, thyroid, and some chemotherapy drugs, may cause your period to be absent or delayed.
- Change in schedule
Changing schedules can throw off your body clock. This is particularly true if you go from days to nights at work or vice versa. If you frequently change shifts and notice problems with regular cycles, talk to your doctor about options on how to stimulate a regular feeling for your body.
- Weight issues
A major change in your weight either by gaining a lot or losing a lot of weight can throw your ovulation cycle off. People who are underweight or extremely overweight sometimes don’t have a period at all which is not very healthy. Overall, an incredibly wonky or non-existent period is a sign of possible health issues.
