Delayed Menstruation: When to Seek Help and Test for Pregnancy - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Menstruation is delayed?


Hello, I have a habit of using an app to track my menstrual cycle, and my periods have always been regular.
However, this time it is already 5 days late.
Should I go to a gynecologist to get medication to induce my period, or what should I do? April 30 was the expected first day of my period, but it didn't come that day.
I thought it would arrive the next day, so I had unprotected intercourse, but today, May 5, it still hasn't come.
There was no sexual intercourse from the end of my last period until April 30.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this situation? When is the best time to take a pregnancy test for accurate results? I have read online that it is normal for periods to be missed 1 or 2 times a year.
Is this true?

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

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low, but it is always best to take preventive measures beforehand.
Do not rely on the safe period.
If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/05/05

More Info


When it comes to understanding delayed menstruation and the appropriate steps to take, it's essential to consider several factors, including the timing of your menstrual cycle, potential pregnancy, and the use of medications like hormonal treatments. Given your situation, where your period is delayed by five days, it’s important to approach this matter with caution and awareness of your body’s signals.

Firstly, the regularity of your menstrual cycle is a significant indicator of your reproductive health. If you have been tracking your cycle with an app and have consistently experienced regular periods, a delay of five days can be concerning, especially if you have not experienced any significant stressors or changes in your lifestyle that could affect your cycle. While it is true that occasional irregularities can occur, particularly in a year, this should not be dismissed lightly, especially if you are accustomed to a predictable cycle.

Regarding the possibility of pregnancy, you mentioned that you had unprotected intercourse on April 30, which was the expected start date of your period. The likelihood of pregnancy occurring from that encounter depends on several factors, including your ovulation cycle. If you have a regular cycle, ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before your next expected period. If your cycle is around 28 days, then having unprotected sex on the first day of your expected period is less likely to result in pregnancy, as ovulation would have already occurred earlier in the cycle. However, sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so if you ovulated later than expected, there is still a possibility of conception.

To determine whether you are pregnant, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period, which in your case would be after April 30. Since it is now May 5, you should be able to obtain a reliable result. If the test is negative and your period still does not arrive, it may be wise to wait a few more days and retest, or consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

If you are considering taking medication to induce your period, such as hormonal treatments, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional first. Self-medicating can lead to complications, especially if there is an underlying issue such as pregnancy or hormonal imbalance. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, including a pregnancy test and possibly an ultrasound, to rule out any complications and provide appropriate treatment options.

In summary, while a five-day delay in menstruation can be concerning, it is essential to evaluate the situation carefully. Taking a home pregnancy test is a good first step, and if the results are negative, monitoring your symptoms and consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable. They can provide guidance on whether hormonal treatment is appropriate and help you understand the underlying causes of your delayed menstruation. Remember, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider about your menstrual health is vital for your overall well-being.

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