Delayed Menstruation: Causes and Concerns for Women

Causes of Delayed Menstruation

Your girlfriend had her menstrual periods on April 26 and May 27, which makes her cycle approximately 32 days long.
However, as of now, she has not had her period.
She had sexual intercourse on June 18, June 19, and June 22, using condoms, and the condoms did not break.
On June 29, a pregnancy test showed one line.
Is there still a possibility of pregnancy?
There are several reasons for a delayed period besides pregnancy.
She mentioned that her vaginal discharge is slightly yellow and has an odor, and she is experiencing abdominal pain and breast tenderness.
These symptoms could indicate a possible infection, such as a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis, or other conditions like hormonal imbalances or stress.
It is advisable for her to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate testing.

Xiao Hei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/01

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the failure rate of using condoms correctly throughout the entire intercourse is still about 5%.
Therefore, it is generally not recommended to rely solely on condoms for contraception.
If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to check for pregnancy.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health, Dr.
Chang.

Reply Date: 2017/07/01

More Info

Delayed menstruation can be a source of concern for many women, and understanding the potential causes and implications is crucial for addressing any underlying issues. In your case, your girlfriend has experienced a delay in her menstrual cycle, which has raised questions about possible pregnancy and other health concerns.

Firstly, it’s important to note that a normal menstrual cycle can vary significantly among women, typically ranging from 21 to 35 days. A delay of a few days to a week can be common and may not necessarily indicate a serious problem. Factors such as stress, changes in routine, diet, exercise, and hormonal fluctuations can all contribute to irregularities in the menstrual cycle.

In your girlfriend's situation, she last had her period on May 27, and now it is June 29 without menstruation. Given that she has had unprotected sexual intercourse during her fertile window, the possibility of pregnancy cannot be entirely ruled out. However, since she has taken a pregnancy test that returned a negative result, it is less likely that she is pregnant, especially if the test was taken after a missed period. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable when used correctly, but false negatives can occur, particularly if the test is taken too early.

The symptoms your girlfriend is experiencing, such as yellowish discharge with an odor, abdominal pain, and breast tenderness, could indicate several possibilities. One common cause of these symptoms is a vaginal infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection, which can lead to changes in discharge and discomfort. It’s essential for her to consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and diagnosis, as untreated infections can lead to more severe health issues.

Additionally, stress and lifestyle changes can significantly impact menstrual cycles. If your girlfriend has been experiencing increased stress or changes in her daily routine, this could also contribute to her delayed menstruation. Stress can affect the hypothalamus, which regulates the hormones responsible for menstruation, leading to irregular cycles.

In summary, while the possibility of pregnancy exists, the negative pregnancy test and the symptoms of unusual discharge and abdominal pain suggest that other factors may be at play. It is advisable for your girlfriend to see a healthcare professional for a thorough examination, which may include a pelvic exam and possibly laboratory tests to rule out infections or other hormonal imbalances.
In conclusion, delayed menstruation can arise from various causes, including stress, hormonal changes, and infections. Monitoring her symptoms and seeking medical advice will be key in addressing her concerns and ensuring her reproductive health is maintained.

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