When your period is late, the first thought for many is pregnancy. But what if you're not pregnant? A delayed menstrual cycle can be confusing and sometimes worrying. At Mascot Healthcare, we often help women understand what’s behind changes in their menstrual health.
Here are 10 common reasons your period may be delayed apart from pregnancy:
1. Stress
Chronic stress affects your brain's hypothalamus, which helps regulate hormones that control your cycle. High stress can lead to skipped or delayed periods.
Tip: Try stress-reducing activities like exercise, meditation, or therapy.
2. Excessive Exercise
Overtraining, especially without enough nutrition, can disrupt ovulation and delay menstruation. This is common in athletes or those who suddenly increase workout intensity.
Tip: Balance your fitness goals with proper rest and diet.
3. Weight Changes (Underweight or Overweight)
Drastic weight loss or gain affects hormone levels and ovulation. Being underweight can stop menstruation altogether, while obesity may cause irregular cycles.
Tip: Aim for a healthy BMI and balanced eating habits.
4. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause irregular or absent periods due to imbalanced androgens and insulin resistance.
Symptoms may include: acne, facial hair, weight gain, and irregular cycles.
5. Thyroid Disorders
An underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can interfere with menstrual hormones, causing delays or changes in flow.
Other signs: fatigue, weight changes, or changes in hair and skin.
6. Hormonal Imbalances
Beyond PCOS or thyroid issues, other hormonal imbalances (like high prolactin or low estrogen) can also cause period delays.
A blood test can help identify these issues.
7. Birth Control or Emergency Contraception
Starting or stopping hormonal contraception—post-pills, daily pills, implants, injections—can alter your menstrual pattern. Emergency contraception can also delay your next period.
8. Perimenopause
If you're in your late 30s or 40s, irregular periods may be a sign of perimenopause — the transition phase before menopause begins.
Other signs include: hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep problems.
9. Chronic Illness or Medical Conditions
Conditions like diabetes, celiac disease, or even infections can affect your body’s hormone production and stress levels, leading to delayed menstruation.
10. Medications
Some medications — such as antipsychotics, antidepressants, or chemotherapy drugs — can interfere with your menstrual cycle.
When Should You See a Doctor?
👉 If your period is over 2 weeks late, happens less than 6 times a year, or is accompanied by unusual symptoms like pain or heavy bleeding, it's time to get checked.
At Mascot Healthcare, we offer affordable gynaecology consultations, hormone tests, and ultrasound scans to help you understand your cycle and feel in control of your health.