By Admin 
For women, menstruation is a natural and very important physical process, which shows their reproductive health. In general, the menstrual cycle is between 21 to 35 days, but sometimes this cycle becomes irregular. There is a common belief that delay in menstruation means pregnancy, but many research has revealed that there can be many other reasons behind it. Let’s know about those eighteen reasons, which are responsible for the delay in menstruation.
What does delay in menstruation mean?
The beginning of the menstrual cycle is considered from day one to the first day of the next cycle. In general, this period is of 28 days, but a cycle of 21 to 38 days is also considered normal. If the menstrual period comes from the normal cycle 7 days or more or does not come for more than 6 weeks, then it is considered a delay or missed period. If this condition persists repeatedly or persisted for a long time, it can be a sign of Amenoria (closure of menstruation). For this, it is necessary to contact a doctor.
Periods are late due to stress
Stress directly affects our hormonal balance. According to a study published by the National Institute of Health (NIH) in 2024, more stress obstructs the production of gonadotropin-immunity hormone (GNRH), which controls ovulation and menstrual cycle. Stress increases the level of cortisol hormones, which affects production of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. This condition can cause delay or irregularity in menstruation.
Polycystic ovary syndrome also causes problems
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a normal hormonal disorder, which affects 10–20% of women in India. This condition is caused by high production of male hormones, which can lead to cysts in the ovaries. These cysts obstruct ovulation, due to which the menstrual period becomes irregular or comes late. According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology in 2024, women with PCOS delay menstruation and metabolic problems such as obesity and diabetes are also common.
Thyroid also disturbs disabilities
Thyroid gland controls the metabolic activities of the body and can affect menstruation from its imbalance (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism). Hypothyroidism (low active thyroid) can cause menstruation and heavy bleeding, while hyperthyroidism (more active thyroid) can cause menstruation quickly or irregular. A survey by Max Healthcare in 2024 found that thyroid imbalance in 15% of women was the main reason for delay in menstruation.
Sudden change in weight
Rapid changes in weight can also affect the menstrual cycle. Actually, less than five percent weight loss within 6 months can cause delay in menstruation. Obesity also increases estrogen levels, which can disrupt ovulation. Apart from this, due to malnutrition or excess exercise like athletes, the production of estrogen in the body can also be reduced, due to which menstruation becomes irregular.
Hormonal contraception also gives problems
Hormonal birth control pills, patch or injection can affect the menstrual cycle. Estrogen and progestin hormones present in them prevent ovulation, which can cause delay or irregularity in menstruation. When a woman starts or stops birth control pills, the body takes time to adapt to hormonal levels, due to which menstruation can be delayed.
Prolactin hormone
The prolactin hormone emanating from the pituitary gland is responsible for breastfeeding and milk production. The higher level of prolactin can cause delay in menstruation. This condition is usually seen in breastfeeding mothers or pituitary gland due to tumor (prolactinoma). This hormone can suppress ovulation, which delays menstruation.
Menopause or perimeneopose
Menopause usually occurs at the age of 45–55 years. This is the condition of menstruation permanent closure. Earlier phase is perimenopause, which can cause irregularity and delay in menstruation due to hormonal fluctuations. In India, 10% of women may start menopause before 40 years (initial menopause), due to which delay or irregularity in menstruation is common.
Chronic diseases and medicines
Diabetes, cellular diseases, and other chronic diseases can spoil hormonal balance, which can delay menstruation. In addition, some medicines such as antidepressant, steroids, and chemotherapy drugs can also affect the menstrual cycle. According to a research published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine in 2023, menstrual irregularity was seen in 20% of women suffering from diabetes.
Also read: If you see these symptoms, then understand that the heart of the heart is very important, go to the doctor immediately
Disclaimer: Some information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, you must consult the concerned expert.
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