Periods are a natural part of a woman’s life cycle. However, sometimes they can be a cause of concern when they occur later than usual. Delayed periods occur when the menstrual cycle is disrupted, causing the period to come later than expected.

While there are many causes of delayed periods, there are several solutions to help regulate them.

1. Pregnancy

One of the most common causes of a delayed period is pregnancy. When a woman becomes pregnant, the fertilized egg implants itself in the uterus, causing the body to stop shedding the uterine lining, which results in a missed period.

If you’ve missed a period and are experiencing other symptoms of pregnancy, it’s essential to take a pregnancy test.

2. Stress

Stress is another common cause of delayed periods. Stress causes the body to produce cortisol, a hormone that affects the menstrual cycle.

When the body is under stress, it diverts resources away from normal bodily functions, including the menstrual cycle. If your period is late due to stress, try practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.

3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder that affects a woman’s ovaries. PCOS can cause irregular periods or no periods at all. Women with PCOS may also experience acne, weight gain, and excess body hair.

If you suspect you have PCOS, it’s essential to talk to your doctor.

4. Thyroid Problems

The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. An overactive or underactive thyroid can affect the menstrual cycle and cause a delay in periods.

If you think you have a thyroid problem, talk to your doctor about getting your thyroid levels checked.

5. Weight Changes

Changes in weight can affect the menstrual cycle. Women who are underweight or overweight may experience a delay in their periods because the body is not producing enough hormones to regulate the menstrual cycle.

If you’ve recently lost or gained weight, it’s important to maintain a healthy weight to regulate your menstrual cycle.

6. Birth Control

Birth control pills and other forms of hormonal birth control can affect the menstrual cycle. The hormones in birth control can cause a delay in periods or make them lighter.

It’s important to discuss any changes in your menstrual cycle with your healthcare provider if you’re on birth control.

7. Over-Exercising

While exercise is important for overall health, over-exercising can affect the menstrual cycle and cause a delay in periods. Women who participate in high-intensity exercise or endurance sports may experience a delay in their menstrual cycle.

It’s important to maintain a healthy exercise routine to regulate your menstrual cycle.

8. Age

The menstrual cycle can change as women age. As women approach menopause, their menstrual cycles may become irregular, causing a delay in periods.

It’s important to talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing changes in your menstrual cycle due to age.

9. Medications

Some medications can affect the menstrual cycle and cause a delay in periods. Medications such as antipsychotics, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications can affect hormone levels and cause a delay in periods.

If you suspect your medications are causing a delay in your period, talk to your healthcare provider.

10. Medical Conditions

Medical conditions such as uterine fibroids and endometriosis can cause a delay in periods. Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus that can affect the menstrual cycle.

Endometriosis occurs when the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain and irregular periods. If you suspect you have a medical condition that’s causing a delay in your period, talk to your doctor.