Reasons Why Your Period May Be Late or Irregular

Almost everyone with a period has experienced being late or some sort of irregularity in their cycle. While all of our cycles are different and a late period every once in a while is completely normal, but having a consistently irregular period may be a sign of other health issues.

A healthy menstrual cycle looks different for everyone. But, if you are experiencing a consistently late, skipped, or irregular period (and you know you are not pregnant), there might be some other health issues causing it.

Here are some of the most common reasons you may be experiencing an irregular or late period:

1.     Stress

One of the biggest obstacles we face in our everyday lives is stress. Intense, consistent stress can drastically affect your body and even change the way it functions, like making your hormones imbalanced or affecting the part of your body that regulates your period. Excessive stress is one of the most common reasons you may be experiencing a late or irregular period.

2.      Thyroid Issues

Thyroid issues are another common cause of irregular periods and are especially common in women. Because of this, it is extremely important to stay consistent with thyroid checkups with your doctor, as an overactive or underactive thyroid can not only affect your period but can also be life-threatening when untreated.

3.      Medication

Many medications can actually affect the regularity of your cycle. Because of this, it is always important to check with your OBGYN and general care physician before taking certain medications. Birth control, anti-epileptics, and anti-psychotics can all affect your period and can often cause it to be late or irregular.

4.    Unhealthy Relationship With Food

Another common cause of a late or irregular period is an unhealthy relationship with food. Many people who struggle with restricting, binging, or drastic weight loss/gain, have experienced consistently irregular periods. By trying your best to find a healthy relationship with food, your body has a better chance of functioning properly and finding a healthy period.

5.     Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome 

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that can drastically affect different functions of the body, including period regularity. According to the CDC, around 5 million people suffer from PCOS. It is one of the most common causes of infertility and causes issues such as heavy bleeding and excessive weight gain too.

If you or anyone you know is experiencing consistently irregular periods, you should contact your OBGYN as soon as possible to get to the bottom of it.