Delayed Menstruation: When to Wait and When to See a Doctor

Q: Delayed Menstruation: When to Wait and When to See a Doctor

Hello Miss 33： Since your menstruation is delayed by four to five days, it is advisable to take a urine test to check for pregnancy. <br>It is not uncommon for women to experience irregular periods once or twice a year, so there is no need to worry too much about that. <br>Howeve

Delayed menstruation?

Hello, I usually use an app to track my menstrual cycle, and it has been quite regular.
However, this time it is already 4 to 5 days late.
Should I wait a few more days or see a doctor? The app calculated the first day of this month as the day my period was due, and since it didn't come, I thought it would arrive the next day, so I had unprotected intercourse.
Is the chance of pregnancy low? I have read online that it's normal for menstruation to be absent once or twice a year; is this true?

33, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/04

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello Miss 33: Since your menstruation is delayed by four to five days, it is advisable to take a urine test to check for pregnancy.
It is not uncommon for women to experience irregular periods once or twice a year, so there is no need to worry too much about that.
However, if you have long-term irregular menstruation, such as having only three to four periods a year or even less, it is important to consult a doctor.
Long-term menstrual irregularities can increase the risk of endometrial hyperplasia and even endometrial cancer, which should not be overlooked.

Reply Date: 2017/05/04

More Info

When it comes to delayed menstruation, it's essential to understand the various factors that can contribute to this condition and when it is appropriate to seek medical advice. Given that you have been tracking your menstrual cycle with an app and have experienced regular periods until now, a delay of 4 to 5 days can be concerning, especially if this is unusual for you.

First, it's important to consider the common reasons for a delayed period. Stress, changes in weight, excessive exercise, hormonal imbalances, and certain medical conditions can all affect your menstrual cycle. Additionally, if you have had unprotected intercourse, there is a possibility of pregnancy, which is a primary reason for a missed period. Even if you believe the chances of pregnancy are low, it is still advisable to take a home pregnancy test to rule out this possibility.

Regarding your question about whether to wait a few more days or to see a doctor, here are some guidelines:
1. Wait and Monitor: If your period is only a few days late and you have no other concerning symptoms (like severe pain, heavy bleeding, or unusual discharge), you might consider waiting a few more days. Menstrual cycles can sometimes be affected by temporary factors, and a short delay is not uncommon.

2. Take a Pregnancy Test: If you have had unprotected sex, taking a home pregnancy test can provide clarity. Most tests are reliable if taken after a missed period. If the test is positive, you should schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your options.

3. Consult a Doctor: If your period does not arrive within a week, or if you experience other symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, unusual discharge, or if you have a history of irregular periods, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, blood tests, or imaging studies to determine the underlying cause of the delay.

4. Understanding Irregularities: It is true that some women may experience one or two missed periods in a year without any underlying health issues. However, if you notice a pattern of irregularity or if your cycles become significantly longer or shorter, it is essential to seek medical advice. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or other hormonal imbalances can lead to irregular periods and may require treatment.

In summary, while a delay of a few days can be normal, especially if it is not accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is always better to err on the side of caution. Taking a pregnancy test and monitoring your symptoms can provide you with more information. If the delay persists or if you have any concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. Your health and well-being are paramount, and a medical professional can help you navigate any issues related to your menstrual cycle.

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