Women get really worried because of a delayed period.
Isn’t it?
One of the greatest fears that plays at the back of their mind is a possible pregnancy if they had engaged in unsafe sex (or even protected too).
Now, what if somebody’s period has got delayed in spite of not engaging in any kind of sexual activity whatsoever?
Read on to find possible reasons why your periods are late.
How late can a period occur to be considered normal?
On an average, a woman gets her periods every 28 days. However, it is absolutely normal to get your periods in the range of 21 days to 40 days.
If there is further delay beyond 40 days or an early onset of periods i.e. before 21 days from the last menstrual cycle, you might consider the below mentioned reasons.
THYROID
Thyroid levels play a very important role in the functioning of our system. One of its important function is to regulate other hormones in the body. Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism can result in delayed periods. If frequent irregularity is noticed, it is best to get your thyroids tested.
SUDDEN WEIGHT CHANGES
Both weight gain and weight loss can cause you to skip or alter your period. Research shows that being overweight impacts hormone and insulin levels, which can interfere with your menstrual cycle. Similarly, sudden and excessive weight loss can also lead to missed or light period.
BIRTH CONTROL PILLS
Apart from posing a variety of health issues, popping a birth control pill, causes the body to release two hormones namely estrogen and progestin. This prevents the release of eggs from the ovaries, causing delayed periods.
PCOS
One of the common reasons for delayed periods can be PCOS (Poly-Cystic Ovary Syndrome). As per statistics it affects 6 to 10% of the women around the world. Due to this condition, cysts are formed on the lining of the ovary, due to the over-production of the male hormone, androgen. The symptoms for this also include sudden weight gain, acne and hair loss or excessive hair on face. A gynecologist should be consulted immediately if there are these accompanying symptoms with irregular periods.
A SUDDEN CHANGE IN LIFESTYLE
Of late, has there been a change in your usual lifestyle? Did you change your sleep patterns, or have you started working out suddenly? It can also be that you have become suddenly lethargic. The body’s metabolism changes accordingly and directly affect your menstrual cycle.
A lot of women experienced irregular menstrual cycle during lockdown because of COVID-19 pandemic. ‘Lockdown’ has forced people to stay at home and has brought a drastic change in our lifestyle. Diets, sleeping habits, and workout routine have seen a major change. And, these factors are taking a toll on our metal health.
Women get stressed than before the lockdown. And, the cortisol hormone (stress hormone) reduced the level of chemicals responsible for the regulation of menstrual cycle.
Prolonged increased level of stress can potentially lead to an imbalance in the secretion of insulin that further increases production of leptin hormone. This chemical is known to bring changes in the ovulation and the occurrence of menstrual cycle.
These are just common reasons that can cause a delay in the menstrual cycle; however, it is best to consult a doctor to rule out other possibilities.