I am not pregnant, but why is my period late?

Is it normal for my period to be late?

In most cases, there is no need to be concerned if your period is a few days late. Nevertheless, if you are not pregnant, a consistently late period might indicate an underlying condition.

What is the maximum delay in periods if not pregnant?

If your menstrual cycle is typically regular, a delay of more than 7 days from your expected period can be considered a late period. If you experience persistent irregular menstrual cycles, do seek medical advice.

What are possible reasons for a delayed period?

1. Stress: Hormone levels in your body could be disrupted due to physical or emotional stress.
2. Weight gain or loss: Extreme calorie restriction inhibits the production of hormones required for ovulation. If you are overweight, your body may produce excess oestrogen, one of the female reproductive hormones. The amount of oestrogen in your body can determine how often you have your period and even stop your periods altogether.
3. Excessive exercise: Intense physical activity can affect the hormones responsible for your periods. Intense exercise that results in excessive fat loss can also prevent ovulation.
4. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS or polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder that can cause irregular periods or absent periods. It is characterised by the presence of small cysts on the ovaries.
5. Thyroid issues: Late or missed periods could also be due to an overactive or underactive thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism and the menstrual cycle. When there is an imbalance in thyroid hormone levels, it can disrupt the normal functioning of the reproductive system.
6. Perimenopause: When women enter the transition period towards menopause, known as perimenopause, their hormone levels can fluctuate, leading to changes in their menstrual cycles.
7. Medications: Certain medications, such as those used for mental health conditions, can affect your menstrual cycle.

What to do when my periods are late, but I am not pregnant?

If you have tested negative for pregnancy but are experiencing persistent irregularities in your menstrual cycle, it is advisable to consult a gynaecologist who can evaluate your symptoms, perform appropriate tests, and provide an accurate diagnosis.

Does travelling cause delayed or late periods?

Travelling itself is not typically a direct cause of delayed or late periods. However, certain factors related to travel can potentially impact your menstrual cycle.

Travelling can sometimes be accompanied by stress, whether it is due to logistical challenges, time zone changes, or unfamiliar environments. High levels of stress can disrupt hormonal balance and lead to irregular periods or delayed ovulation, which, in turn, can cause a late period.

Does sleeping late affect your period?

Sleeping late or having disrupted sleep patterns can potentially affect your menstrual cycle, although the impact may vary from person to person.

It is important to note that occasional late nights or disrupted sleep may not significantly impact your menstrual cycle. However, persistent or chronic sleep disturbances could contribute to irregularities or changes in your period.

Discover how to establish a healthy sleep routine to ensure you get adequate, quality sleep for your overall health and well-being.

Make an appointment at Pantai Hospitals

A dedicated and expert team of obstetricians and gynaecologists at Pantai Hospital is available for consultation to provide the best care and assistance. Get in touch with us to book an appointment today if you have any concerns or questions regarding your reproductive health.

For health screening appointments, please contact the Health Screening Centre at your nearest Pantai Hospital.

Pantai Hospital has been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.