Why Is My Period Late? (Not Pregnant)
Common Causes of a Missed or Late Period
Every woman’s menstrual cycle is different, but most people experience a period every 28 days or so. When your period is late, or even if you miss it altogether, it can be confusing and concerning. While pregnancy is the most common cause of a missed period, there are many other potential causes that don’t involve being pregnant.
Stress
High levels of stress can affect your hormones and cause a late or missed period. Stress can come from the pressures of work, home, or school, as well as physical, emotional, or psychological trauma. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed and anxious, it could be the cause of your missed period.
Weight Change
Your weight can have a big impact on your menstrual cycle. If you’ve lost or gained a significant amount of weight recently, it can cause your cycle to become irregular. Women who are underweight may stop having periods altogether, while those who are overweight may experience heavier and more frequent periods.
Medication
Certain medications can affect your menstrual cycle, including certain contraceptives, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications. If you’ve recently started taking a new medication and have noticed changes in your period, it could be what’s causing it.
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances can cause a missed or late period. Your hormones regulate your menstrual cycle, so if they’re not functioning properly, it can throw off your cycle. Hormonal imbalances can be caused by a variety of things, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid disorders.
Breastfeeding
If you’ve recently given birth, your period may not return right away. This is because breastfeeding can suppress the hormones that regulate your period. It’s normal for your period to take a few months to return while you’re breastfeeding.
Perimenopause
As you age, your hormones start to change, which can cause your menstrual cycle to become irregular. This is known as perimenopause, and it usually starts in your late 30s or early 40s. You may experience a missed or late period, as well as other symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
Other Causes
Aside from the common causes of a late period, there are other things that can cause it. These include excessive exercise, eating disorders, certain medical conditions, and even travel. If you’ve ruled out the other potential causes, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor and get a checkup.
When to See a Doctor
If your period has been late or missed for more than three months, it’s a good idea to see your doctor. They can do a physical exam, take a medical history, and order tests to determine the cause of your late or missed period. They may also recommend lifestyle changes and medications to help regulate your cycle.