Medically reviewed to ensure accuracy.
There are a number of reasons why your period may not show up on time or at all.
Missed-period culprits are often as simple as a shift in your schedule or a bout of illness.
Is it normal to miss a period?
You may also skip a period at the end of your menstrual years as you approach menopause.
(You’re technically in menopause when you’ve gone over 12 months without a menstrual period.)
When you’re under physical or emotional stress, your body produces the hormones adrenaline and cortisol.
Extreme weight loss, low caloric intake or being very underweight can stress the hypothalamus.
This could inhibit your body from producing the estrogen needed to build the lining of the uterus.
Excessive exercise
Of course, working out is good for you.
But you don’t have to be a pro for exercise to mess with your system.
Working out excessively without taking in enough calories can also cause disruptions.
Some possible signs that you’re overdoing it?
Slowing down a bit and gaining weight if needed should get things back on track.
Many moms don’t have a period for months (or at all) while breastfeeding.
But a lapse in your cycledoesn’t mean you could’t get pregnant.
Remember, ovulation occurs before you get your period.
It’s possible for you to ovulate and then get pregnant before you ever see your period.
Most moms should see their periods return within six to eight weeks after weaning.
If you haven’t gotten your period three months after youstop breastfeeding, talk to your doctor.
Medication
Probably the most common medication to cause menstrual changes is birth control.
But what about that monthly bleeding you have while using one of these methods?
(Bring this up with your doctor.)
If you’re not sure whether you might be pregnant, however, visit your doctor.
PCOS can cause cysts on the ovaries and prevent ovulation from occurring regularly.
If PCOS is the cause, your doctor may recommend birth control to regulate your periods.
An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause periods to be lighter and less frequent.
Additional symptoms include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, increased sweating and trouble sleeping.
An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) may also cause periods to be less frequent but heavier.
Perimenopause
The average age of menopause is 51.
If you’re concerned about your symptoms, your doctor can check your hormone levels with a blood test.
How late can a period be?
(There are some smartphone apps that make tracking easier.)
This will help you figure out what a “normal” menstrual cycle usually looks like for you.
A period is usually considered late if it hasn’t started within seven days of when you expect it.
Most pregnancy tests will also be able to give you accurate results by this time.
Every woman skips a period now and then, especially if she’s under stress or has been sick.
