For many women, having regular menstrual cycles is an important part of their reproductive health. However, life events, sickness, or medications can sometimes cause delays in a woman’s period.

This can be stressful for individuals who are trying to conceive or simply for those who want to maintain a predictable cycle. Below are ten reasons why a woman’s period might be late:.

1. Pregnancy or breastfeeding

When a woman is pregnant or breastfeeding, the body goes through hormonal changes that can inhibit ovulation and cause menstrual cycle irregularities.

It is common for women to miss their periods during pregnancy, and breastfeeding mothers often experience delayed or infrequent periods.

2. Stress

Stress can affect the body’s hormonal balance, causing periods to be delayed or skipped altogether. Stressors can range from emotional problems to physical issues like weight loss, illness, or exercise.

3. Weight changes or eating disorders

Drastic changes in weight, whether intentional or unintentional, can affect hormone levels in the body. Eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia can disrupt the body’s natural rhythms and cause delayed or missed periods.

4. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS often have elevated levels of androgens and insulin and may experience irregular periods or skipped cycles.

5. Uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that can develop in the uterus. They can cause heavy or prolonged periods and may disrupt the menstrual cycle.

6. Thyroid disorders

The thyroid gland regulates metabolism and can affect the menstrual cycle. Women with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism may experience delayed or irregular periods.

7. Perimenopause or menopause

As women age, their hormone levels change, leading to irregular periods and eventual menopause. Perimenopause is the transitional period before menopause, during which cycles may become less predictable.

8. Medications or medical treatments

Some medications or medical treatments can cause menstrual cycle irregularities. Birth control pills, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are just a few examples of treatments that may affect the timing of periods.

9. Medical conditions

Certain medical conditions such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease can affect the reproductive organs and cause menstrual cycle irregularities.

10. Travel or other changes to routine

Changes in routine, such as travel or work-related stress, can disrupt the body’s natural rhythms and cause delayed or irregular periods.

If you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or notice a significant change in your period, it’s essential to speak with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the cause of the irregularity and offer potential treatments.