Delayed Menstruation and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: What You Need to Know

Missed menstruation and pelvic inflammatory disease?

Masturbating regularly and not having engaged in sexual intercourse, I have experienced a delay in my menstrual period by four to five days.
In the past six months, my menstrual flow has occasionally been lighter but has generally been on time, with the last two months being normal.
Can masturbation cause polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? If my period is late, is it not due to PCOS but rather because I have been eating unhealthy convenience store food (sandwiches and yogurt) and going to bed at one or two in the morning? After masturbating, I sometimes feel a sensation in my abdomen similar to menstrual cramps, but after a period of not masturbating, I no longer experience this feeling.
Could this be a symptom of pelvic inflammatory disease? By the way, I rarely experience menstrual cramps, and I am only 16 years old.
Thank you, doctor.

Amy, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/26

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the factors that can affect the menstrual cycle or cause intermenstrual bleeding are numerous, including age, environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, weight changes, medications, emergency contraception, diet, polycystic ovary syndrome, uterine or cervical lesions, infections, ovulation, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, among others.
To determine if there is polycystic ovary syndrome or pelvic inflammatory disease, it is necessary to have relevant examinations arranged by a physician.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist to check for hormonal imbalances or other causes.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2019/03/26

More Info

Delayed menstruation can be a source of concern for many young women, especially when accompanied by other symptoms. In your case, it seems you are experiencing a delay of four to five days in your menstrual cycle, which can be influenced by various factors, including lifestyle choices, stress, and hormonal imbalances.
Firstly, it's important to clarify that masturbation, including clitoral stimulation, does not cause polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or any other hormonal disorders. PCOS is a complex endocrine disorder characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries. The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve genetic and environmental factors, rather than sexual activity or masturbation.

Regarding your menstrual irregularities, it is possible that your diet and sleep patterns could be contributing factors. A diet consisting primarily of convenience store foods, such as sandwiches and yogurt, may lack essential nutrients that support hormonal balance and overall health. Additionally, irregular sleep patterns, such as going to bed late, can disrupt your body's circadian rhythm, which may also affect your menstrual cycle. Stress, whether from academic pressures or personal issues, can also play a significant role in menstrual irregularities.

The abdominal discomfort you experience after masturbation could be related to muscle tension or mild cramping, which is not uncommon. However, if you are experiencing persistent pain or discomfort, it may be worth consulting a healthcare professional to rule out conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or other underlying issues. PID is an infection of the reproductive organs that can occur due to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other bacterial infections. Symptoms may include pelvic pain, fever, unusual discharge, and painful urination. Since you mentioned that you have not engaged in sexual intercourse, the likelihood of PID may be lower, but it is still important to monitor your symptoms.

At 16 years old, your body is still undergoing significant hormonal changes as you transition through puberty. It is not uncommon for young women to experience variations in their menstrual cycles during this time. If your periods continue to be irregular or if you experience significant pain, it would be advisable to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include blood tests to check hormone levels and an ultrasound to assess your ovaries and uterus.

In summary, while your current lifestyle factors may contribute to your delayed menstruation, they are unlikely to be the sole cause. Masturbation does not lead to PCOS, and the discomfort you feel may not necessarily indicate PID. However, if you have concerns about your menstrual health or experience any concerning symptoms, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options. Taking care of your diet, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and managing stress can all contribute positively to your menstrual health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Menstrual Delay After Pelvic Inflammatory Treatment

I'm not sure if it's related to the recent treatment for pelvic inflammatory disease, but my period was delayed until the 17th this time (normally it comes within the first 10 days of the month). Will my next period also be delayed? (The inflammation has been treated, a...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the factors that can affect the menstrual cycle or cause intermenstrual bleeding are numerous, including environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, diet, age, lesions in the uterus or cervix, and pregnancy, among others. Additionally, condoms and contraceptive ...

Understanding Pelvic Inflammatory Disease and Menstrual Irregularities

On December 17, I visited the gynecology department due to lower abdominal pain, which was diagnosed as pelvic inflammatory disease. I was prescribed medication and suppositories. After using the suppository last night, I noticed deep brown discharge resembling menstrual blood th...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
On December 17th, I visited the gynecology department due to lower abdominal pain, which was diagnosed as pelvic inflammatory disease. I was prescribed medication and suppositories. After using the suppository last night, I noticed deep brown discharge resembling menstrual blood ...

Can Vaginal Infections Delay Your Menstrual Cycle?

Hello doctor, I experienced inflammation in my genital area in March and April, with increased discharge that had a cottage cheese-like appearance. I consulted a doctor and received medication, and my condition improved in March. However, after my menstrual period started on Apri...

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, Miss: Regarding your inquiry, the timing for the pregnancy test is accurate; the primary reason affecting the menstrual cycle is largely due to stress. The presence of endometriomas may also be related, and it is necessary to follow up every three months. The Hualien Hospi...

Understanding Delayed Menstruation and Abnormal Bleeding: Key Concerns

Hello, doctor. My expected menstrual period was on the 28th of last month, but my period is now about 20 days late. I have been experiencing dark brown discharge almost every day, occasional mild pain, and very light bleeding. Recently, during two sexual encounters with my boyfri...

Dr. Chen Changfu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Abnormal menstrual cycle and abnormal vaginal bleeding in females should certainly raise the suspicion of possible abnormal pregnancy-related bleeding; it is essential to seek medical evaluation promptly.