Late periods can be caused by several factors beyond pregnancy, including stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in body weight, medical conditions, and lifestyle changes.
Common Causes of Late Periods
- Stress: Chronic stress affects the brain's hypothalamus, which regulates menstruation, causing irregular or missed periods through hormonal disruptions like increased prolactin and cortisol levels.
- Body Weight Changes: Both obesity and low body weight can disrupt menstrual cycles. Rapid weight gain or loss, eating disorders, or excessive exercise can affect hormone production and ovulation.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders (both hypo- and hyperthyroidism), and primary ovarian insufficiency (early menopause) can lead to late or missed periods.
- Perimenopause: The transitional phase before menopause, usually between ages 45-55, causes fluctuating hormone levels, resulting in irregular or late periods.
- Medications and Birth Control: Certain medications, including birth control pills and drugs for depression or nausea, may affect menstrual cycles.
- Breastfeeding: The hormone prolactin that supports milk production can inhibit ovulation and delay menstruation postpartum.
- Chronic or Other Health Conditions: Diabetes, celiac disease, heart disease, and uterine scarring (e.g., after a dilation and curettage) can also cause menstrual irregularities.
- Lifestyle Factors: Significant changes in diet, exercise habits, or overall health can alter cycle timing.
If periods are significantly irregular or missed repeatedly, consulting a healthcare professional is advised for evaluation and appropriate treatment.
This summary covers the key causes of late periods comprehensively based on current medical understanding.
