A variety of factors can cause late periods, ranging from natural hormonal fluctuations to underlying medical conditions. Here's a breakdown of common causes:
Common Causes of Late Periods
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Pregnancy: This is the most common reason for a missed or late period. If you've had unprotected sex and your period is late, take a pregnancy test.
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Stress: High stress levels can disrupt the hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle, leading to irregular or missed periods.
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Perimenopause: This is the transition period before menopause, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. During perimenopause, periods can become irregular before eventually stopping altogether.
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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause irregular periods, as well as other symptoms like ovarian cysts, excess hair growth, and acne.
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Weight Changes: Significant weight loss or gain can affect hormone levels and disrupt your menstrual cycle.
- Sudden Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss can disrupt hormonal balance, causing periods to become irregular or stop.
- Being Overweight: Excess weight can also lead to hormonal imbalances and irregular periods.
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Excessive Exercise: Overdoing it with exercise can sometimes lead to missed periods, especially if combined with low calorie intake.
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Contraceptive Pills: Starting, stopping, or switching birth control pills can affect your menstrual cycle, causing periods to be late or irregular.
Other Potential Causes
While the above are common, other less frequent causes of late periods include:
- Thyroid problems: Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can affect the menstrual cycle.
- Chronic diseases: Certain chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, can contribute to irregular periods.
- Certain medications: Some medications, beyond hormonal birth control, can interfere with menstruation.
- Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding can suppress ovulation and menstruation.
- Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI): This condition occurs when the ovaries stop working normally before age 40.
When to See a Doctor
If your period is consistently late or irregular, or if you experience other unusual symptoms, it's a good idea to consult a doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
