Delayed Menstruation: Signs, Symptoms, and Concerns

Regarding delayed menstruation..?

Hello, doctor.
I had a normal menstrual period at the beginning of January and a roughly normal one at the beginning of February.
During that time, I had sexual intercourse with a condom and no ejaculation inside.
In March, my period was late by 4.5 days, and when it came, the flow was light and dark in color.
In April, I did not have any sexual intercourse, but my period is now nearly 6 days late.
What should I do? Could I be pregnant? My breasts feel slightly lumpy and are painful to touch, and I also feel a bit of discomfort in my lower abdomen.

Nín hǎo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/11

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Please consult a physician for a thorough examination for clarity.

Reply Date: 2017/04/11

More Info

Delayed menstruation can be a source of concern for many individuals, and it is important to understand the signs, symptoms, and potential causes behind this condition. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing irregularities in your menstrual cycle, which can be influenced by various factors.

Firstly, it is essential to consider the possibility of pregnancy. Although you mentioned using condoms during intercourse, no contraceptive method is 100% effective. The fact that your period was delayed in March and is now delayed again in April could indicate a potential pregnancy, especially if you have had unprotected intercourse or if the condom failed. The symptoms you described, such as breast tenderness and the presence of hard lumps, could also be indicative of hormonal changes associated with pregnancy. It is advisable to take a home pregnancy test for a more definitive answer.

However, delayed menstruation can also occur due to several non-pregnancy-related factors. Stress is a significant contributor to menstrual irregularities. Emotional or physical stress can affect the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates hormones responsible for menstruation. Changes in weight, whether it be weight loss or gain, can also disrupt your cycle. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders can lead to irregular periods as well.

In addition to these factors, lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity or changes in diet, can also impact your menstrual cycle. If you have recently experienced any significant changes in your life, such as moving, changing jobs, or experiencing personal issues, these could also contribute to your delayed menstruation.

Given that you have experienced a delay of nearly six days in April, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, blood tests, and possibly an ultrasound, to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. It is crucial to address any concerns you may have regarding your reproductive health, especially if you are experiencing additional symptoms such as pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen.

In summary, while pregnancy is a possibility that should be ruled out, there are numerous other factors that could be contributing to your delayed menstruation. Taking a home pregnancy test and scheduling an appointment with a healthcare provider will help clarify your situation and provide you with the necessary guidance and treatment options. Remember, it is always better to seek professional advice when it comes to your health, especially when experiencing changes in your menstrual cycle.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Possible Causes and Symptoms

Hello, doctor. On January 28, I was in my ovulation period, and my boyfriend had intercourse that day. I indicated that it was a risky period. My period in February was delayed by one day, but it only lasted for five days, and the flow significantly decreased after the third day....

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. For pregnancy concerns, please take a home pregnancy test or consult a gynecologist for evaluation four weeks after sexual intercourse. 2. The menstrual cycle can be influenced by various physical and mental conditions.

Understanding Menstrual Dysphoria: Symptoms and Delayed Periods Explained

If symptoms such as binge eating, low mood, irritability, excessive sleepiness, insomnia, headaches, abdominal pain, and weight loss persist for more than a week, can they lead to a delayed menstrual period? (From August 10 to the 19th) My last menstrual period started on the 18t...

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Taking emergency contraceptive pills can potentially lead to menstrual irregularities or disruptions. Symptoms such as binge eating, low mood, irritability, drowsiness, insomnia, headaches, abdominal pain, and weight loss lasting for more than a week may indicate a disturbance in...

Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Causes Beyond Pregnancy

I’m sorry to hear about your situation. It sounds like you are experiencing premenstrual symptoms, but your period is still delayed. In addition to abdominal pain, you mentioned not feeling excessively sleepy or nauseous, but occasionally feeling warm, which then returns to norma...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraception taken within 72 hours after intercourse is about 97%. However, it is not 100% effective, and there is approximately a 3% failure rate, but it is still considered a remedial option. Additionally, early pregnancy may not present s...

Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Concerns and Next Steps for Young Women

Hello, I apologize for bothering you. I am a 20-year-old female, and I do not have a habit of tracking my menstrual cycle (but I will definitely improve that in the future!). My period usually occurs between the 27th of each month and the 10th of the following month. In 2014, I d...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the factors that can affect the menstrual cycle are numerous, including age, environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, weight changes, medications, emergency contraception, diet, uterine or cervical lesions, infections, and pregnancy, among others. The situati...