Delayed Menstruation: Possible Causes and Concerns

Delayed menstruation?

The last time I asked the doctor, they said pregnancy was unlikely.
I would like to ask again about my girlfriend's missed period, as it has been over the normal cycle of 35 days.
Thank you, doctor.
Here is the content of my previous inquiry: My girlfriend's period started on January 19, and we had sexual intercourse that day (it was both of our first times; I've heard that periods can be delayed after the first time, but I'm not sure if that's true).
Since it was the first day of her period, we did not use a condom (I have heard that it's less likely to get pregnant during menstruation, but it's not impossible).
There was vaginal penetration, but ejaculation occurred outside.
Today, February 27, marks 35 days since her normal menstrual cycle, and her period has not yet arrived.
She has had irregular menstrual cycles in the past, and she does not exhibit any of the common pregnancy symptoms mentioned online.
I would like to know how high the chance of pregnancy is in this situation.
If it is not pregnancy, what could be the issue?

Andy, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/27

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, sometimes menstruation may be delayed.
You can observe it and wait for one to two weeks.
If it still doesn't come, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/02/27

More Info

Understanding delayed menstruation can be a source of concern for many women, especially when it extends beyond the typical menstrual cycle. In your case, your girlfriend's period is over 35 days late, which is indeed a significant delay. While pregnancy is often the first concern when menstruation is delayed, there are several other potential causes that should be considered.

1. Pregnancy: Although you mentioned that a doctor indicated pregnancy is unlikely, it is still a possibility that cannot be completely ruled out, especially since there was unprotected intercourse. Even if ejaculation occurred outside the vagina, pre-ejaculatory fluid can contain sperm, which may lead to pregnancy. If there is any doubt, taking a home pregnancy test can provide clarity.

2. Hormonal Imbalances: The menstrual cycle is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones. Factors such as stress, significant weight loss or gain, excessive exercise, or hormonal disorders (like polycystic ovary syndrome or thyroid dysfunction) can disrupt this balance and lead to delayed menstruation.
3. Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Emotional and physical stress can significantly impact the menstrual cycle. If your girlfriend has been experiencing stress from work, school, or personal issues, this could contribute to her delayed period. Lifestyle changes, such as changes in diet or exercise routines, can also play a role.

4. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can affect menstrual regularity. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or other endocrine issues can lead to irregular cycles. If your girlfriend has a history of irregular periods, this could be a contributing factor.

5. Age and Developmental Factors: If your girlfriend is younger and still in the process of establishing her menstrual cycle, irregularities can be common. It may take time for cycles to become regular, especially after starting menstruation.

6. Medications: If your girlfriend is taking any medications, including hormonal contraceptives or other treatments, these could affect her menstrual cycle. Some medications can cause changes in the timing or flow of periods.

Given that your girlfriend has a history of irregular cycles, it may be beneficial for her to monitor her menstrual health closely. If her period does not arrive soon, or if she experiences other concerning symptoms (such as severe pain, unusual discharge, or symptoms of pregnancy), it would be wise for her to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. A healthcare professional can perform necessary tests, including blood tests to check hormone levels, and provide guidance based on her specific situation.

In conclusion, while pregnancy is a common concern with delayed menstruation, there are numerous other factors that could be at play. Encouraging your girlfriend to take a pregnancy test and consult with a healthcare provider if her period does not arrive soon would be prudent steps to take. This will help ensure that any underlying issues are addressed and that she receives appropriate care.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Common Causes and Concerns

Hello, I would like to ask about my situation. My boyfriend and I are still in the dating phase and have not engaged in actual sexual intercourse; we have only been intimate through touching. Last month, my period was delayed by a week due to exam stress (it started on January 14...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the questioner: Women often experience hormonal imbalances affecting their menstrual cycle due to physiological and psychological stress after illness. Other factors such as environment, lifestyle, emotions, diet, and age can also contribute. It is advisable to consult a p...

Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Common Causes and Concerns

Doctor, I would like to ask why I had a very light period for two days on February 27-28 last month, and I still haven't gotten my period this month. Is there something wrong with my body?

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: If your period is late, the first step is to take a pregnancy test to check for pregnancy. Other causes of delayed or absent menstruation include obesity, excessive stress, hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, elevated prolactin levels, elevated androgens, certain medication...

Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Causes and Concerns After Intercourse

Having sexual intercourse a few days before menstruation, while using a condom throughout, can sometimes lead to changes in the menstrual cycle. A delay of 4.5 days in menstruation, followed by a period lasting only three days with heavier flow during the first couple of days, ca...

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Irregular menstruation can have many potential causes, with the most likely being menstrual irregularities. Other possibilities include pregnancy, inflammation, tumors, or polyps. A pregnancy test can confirm whether pregnancy is the cause. Dr. Lu Ching-Shang, Taoyuan Hospital.

Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Possible Causes and Symptoms

Hello, doctor. On January 28, I was in my ovulation period, and my boyfriend had intercourse that day. I indicated that it was a risky period. My period in February was delayed by one day, but it only lasted for five days, and the flow significantly decreased after the third day....

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. For pregnancy concerns, please take a home pregnancy test or consult a gynecologist for evaluation four weeks after sexual intercourse. 2. The menstrual cycle can be influenced by various physical and mental conditions.