Why is my period not on time? The common thought among women when their period is late or delayed is pregnancy. Though it could indicate a possible pregnancy, there could also be other reasons why. If a pregnancy test is negative, and you are still not having your period, it could a sign of abnormality which needs a medical intervention.
Missed period could also be a result of stress, gain or loss of weight, drugs, illness, contraceptives, pelvic organ problems or simply missed ovulation. Stress affects our lives in several ways such as dealing with our own selves, family, relationships and even our body and its organ systems. Sometimes, we are so stressed out which causes our body not to ovulate. Gaining or losing weight can also affect our hormones that cause your period to stop. This is common among professional athletes who are into extreme physical activities. When you are on medication, ask your doctor if it can cause side effects like missing your period, it is common especially if you are taking birth control oral pills. Pelvic organ problems include polycystic ovary syndrome or Asherman's syndrome. These syndromes are considered to be one of the major causes of infertility.
Menopause is the stage when you have reached the point where you still stop ovulating and will no longer menstruate. This is a natural stage for women that can be also done through surgery or chemical like having chemotherapies. Lastly, it could indicate that you are pregnant and a simple pregnancy test can determine if you are or not. The presence of the hormone called hCG is shown when a woman is pregnant. All the above-mentioned causes could become harmful if left untreated. If you are breastfeeding, you will experience irregularity in your menstrual cycle until you have completed breastfeeding.
If you missed your period, calm down. Restoring your life to emotional and physical stability can help. If you are not pregnant, your cycle will return back to normal. Be aware of the changes in your body and consult a doctor if this happens most of the time.
If you are pregnant, the next thing to do is to have an appointment with an obstetrician or a midwife. They will be the one to guide you throughout the pregnancy. However, if the pregnancy test is negative, wait for another week and have the test again. If it will still show you a negative result, you may opt to see your doctor immediately for a physical exam and laboratory exams.
