For many people who menstruate, the regularity of their periods is an important aspect of their reproductive health. However, there are various factors that can cause a delay or missed period, other than pregnancy.

Understanding these causes can help individuals make informed decisions about their health and seek appropriate medical advice if needed.

1. Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances can cause disruptions in the menstrual cycle, resulting in late or missed periods.

Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and hormonal fluctuations due to stress or excessive exercise can all contribute to hormonal imbalances. These imbalances can affect the regularity and timing of menstrual periods.

2. Weight Fluctuations

Significant weight fluctuations, both weight gain and weight loss, can impact the menstrual cycle.

Being underweight or experiencing rapid weight loss can lead to hormonal imbalances and amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), while being overweight or experiencing rapid weight gain can also disrupt the regularity of periods. Maintaining a healthy weight can help promote a balanced menstrual cycle.

3. Stress and Emotional Factors

Stress and emotional factors can play a significant role in altering the menstrual cycle. Stress triggers the release of stress hormones such as cortisol, which can interfere with the normal functioning of the reproductive hormones.

Emotional factors, such as anxiety, depression, or grief, can also affect hormone levels, leading to irregular or delayed periods.

4. Medications and Medical Conditions

Certain medications, such as hormonal contraceptives, antipsychotics, and anticoagulants, can have an impact on the menstrual cycle.

Additionally, underlying medical conditions such as polyps, fibroids, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease can cause irregular periods or even missed periods. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider if medications or medical conditions are suspected to be causing menstrual irregularities.

5. Perimenopause and Menopause

Perimenopause refers to the transitional period leading up to menopause, and menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation. During perimenopause, the menstrual cycle becomes irregular, leading to missed or delayed periods.

As individuals approach menopause, their hormone levels fluctuate, causing changes in menstrual patterns. It is important to note that missed periods due to perimenopause or menopause are considered normal, but consulting a healthcare provider is advised if there are any concerns or unusual symptoms.

6. Excessive Exercise

Engaging in high-intensity or excessive exercise routines can impact the menstrual cycle. Intense exercise can lead to low body fat levels and high energy expenditure, causing hormonal imbalances and menstrual irregularities.

Athletes or individuals who engage in intense workouts may experience missed periods or delayed menstruation. Striking a balance between exercise and rest is crucial for maintaining a healthy menstrual cycle.

7. Breastfeeding

For people who have recently given birth and are breastfeeding, their menstrual cycles may be irregular or temporarily stop altogether.

Breastfeeding triggers the release of the hormone prolactin, which inhibits ovulation and can delay the return of menstruation. However, it is important to note that breastfeeding should not be relied upon as a sole method of contraception, as ovulation can still occur irregularly.

8. Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on the ovaries. While most ovarian cysts are harmless and resolve on their own, larger cysts or certain types of cysts can disrupt the menstrual cycle and lead to missed periods.

If ovarian cysts are suspected, medical evaluation is recommended to determine the appropriate course of treatment.

9. Chronic Illnesses

Chronic illnesses and conditions such as diabetes, celiac disease, and polycystic kidney disease can contribute to hormonal imbalances and disrupt the regularity of menstrual cycles.

Managing these conditions through proper medical care and lifestyle adjustments can help maintain a healthy menstrual cycle.

10. Travel and Jet Lag

Traveling across different time zones and experiencing jet lag can temporarily disrupt the menstrual cycle due to changes in sleep patterns, meal times, and exposure to external factors.

The body’s internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm, can be influenced by these changes, impacting hormone regulation and causing delayed or missed periods.