Delayed Menstruation: Causes and When to Seek Help

Delayed menstruation?

My menstrual cycle has consistently been 33 to 35 days.
I was originally expecting my period to start on November 4, but as of November 11, I have not had my period for 40 days.
During the exam period, I experienced late nights and significant stress.
On November 3 and 4, I consumed ice and drank cold beer.
Could this be due to my body being too cold and the high levels of stress? Additionally, I have been engaging in mutual masturbation with my boyfriend this month, but we did not have penetrative intercourse.
I'm unsure if any bodily fluids may have entered my uterus.
Should I see a doctor since it has been 40 days without my period?

Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/11/11

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The menstrual cycle has consistently been 33 to 35 days.
Since the midterm exams were from November 5 to November 10, I originally expected my period to start on November 4.
However, it is now November 11, and I have not had my period for 40 days.
During the exam period, I stayed up late and experienced a lot of stress.
On November 3 and 4, I consumed ice and drank cold beer.
Could this be due to my body being too cold and the high stress levels? Additionally, I have engaged in mutual masturbation with my boyfriend this month, but we did not have sexual intercourse.
I am unsure if any bodily fluids may have entered the uterus.
Should I see a doctor since it has been 40 days without my period?
Answer: Since your midterms were from November 5 to November 10 and you expected your period to start on November 4, but now it has been 40 days without menstruation, you can monitor your situation for another week.
If your period does not start, it would be advisable to see a doctor.

Reply Date: 2018/11/11

More Info

Delayed menstruation can be a source of concern for many individuals, and understanding the potential causes is essential for determining whether medical intervention is necessary. In your case, you mentioned a regular menstrual cycle of 33 to 35 days, with your last period expected around November 4th. As of November 11th, you have not menstruated for 40 days, which is significantly longer than your usual cycle.
Several factors can contribute to delayed menstruation, including stress, lifestyle changes, and physical health. You noted that you experienced significant stress during your midterm exams, which can have a profound impact on your menstrual cycle. Stress can lead to hormonal imbalances, affecting the hypothalamus, which regulates the menstrual cycle. Additionally, changes in sleep patterns, such as staying up late to study, can also disrupt hormonal balance and lead to delayed periods.

You also mentioned consuming ice and alcoholic beverages during this time. While moderate alcohol consumption is generally not a direct cause of delayed menstruation, excessive drinking can affect liver function and hormone levels, potentially leading to menstrual irregularities. The consumption of cold foods and drinks, such as ice and beer, is often thought to affect menstrual health in traditional medicine, but scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited. However, if your body is sensitive to temperature changes, it could potentially play a role in your overall well-being.

Regarding your sexual activity, you indicated that you engaged in manual stimulation with your boyfriend but did not have penetrative intercourse. While the risk of pregnancy from this activity is low, it is not entirely impossible if there was any transfer of seminal fluid. If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it may be wise to take a home pregnancy test for peace of mind.

Given that you have not had a period for 40 days, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, a review of your medical history, and possibly blood tests to check hormone levels. This evaluation will help determine if there are underlying issues such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid dysfunction, or other hormonal imbalances that may be contributing to your delayed menstruation.

In summary, while stress and lifestyle factors such as sleep disruption and dietary choices can contribute to delayed menstruation, it is essential to seek medical advice if your period does not resume soon. A healthcare provider can help identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatment or lifestyle modifications to restore your menstrual cycle. Remember, your health is paramount, and addressing these concerns early can help prevent further complications.

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