A period is generally considered late if it is 5 to 7 days overdue from the expected start date based on an individual's usual menstrual cycle. Menstrual cycles typically range from 21 to 35 days, so a delay beyond this range or beyond this expected date can be considered late. Sometimes, periods can be late due to factors like stress, lifestyle changes, hormonal imbalances, or health conditions. If a period is delayed by more than 6 weeks or several months, it may be classified as a missed period and could warrant medical evaluation.
Key Points on Late Periods
- A period is considered late if it doesn't start 5 or more days after the expected date based on usual cycle length (commonly 21 to 35 days).
- Delays up to 7 days can be normal, but persistent delays or consistently irregular cycles require medical advice.
- A delay beyond 6 weeks is usually considered a missed period.
- Factors for late periods include stress, weight changes, exercise, medications, hormonal disorders like PCOS, thyroid issues, and perimenopause.
- If periods are consistently late or absent, especially if not pregnant, medical evaluation is recommended to determine underlying causes.
Thus, a period can be late by about 5 to 7 days and still be within a normal variation, but if it exceeds this duration significantly or is accompanied by other symptoms, seeking medical advice is advisable.
