Medical Reasons for Delayed Menstruation
A delayed period isn’t always something simple – sometimes it can be a sign of something more serious.
If your period is frequently late or comes with unusual symptoms, there might be an underlying medical issue that needs attention:
- Endometriosis: It affects the regularity of periods, can cause delays, irregular timing, and abnormal bleeding, often accompanied by severe pain before or during the period.
- Ovarian cysts (such as chocolate cysts): These can affect ovulation and cause menstrual irregularities.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common cause of delayed or irregular periods.
- High prolactin levels (the milk hormone): This affects ovulation and can lead to delayed or missed periods.
- Chronic conditions like diabetes or adrenal gland disorders: Both play a role in regulating menstrual cycles.
- Ovulation disorders and thyroid issues, or the presence of fibroids.
- Medications: Such as antidepressants or corticosteroids.
- Severe physical or emotional trauma: Especially if surgery has been done on or near the uterus or ovaries.
If the delay is accompanied by symptoms like severe pain, abnormal bleeding, or excess hair growth on the face or body – it’s important to get checked.