Is This a Sign of Menstruation? Delayed Periods

Is this a sign of menstruation?

Based on the menstrual cycle, her period was expected to start on Monday, but she mentioned that it often arrives a few days late.
It's now past that date, and I'm quite worried.
We have been intimate.
The reason is that my girlfriend told me on Monday while she was at work that she felt wet down there and mentioned that this wetness indicates her period is coming soon.
This month is her first time working, and she said she feels very tired.
Her period was supposed to start on Monday, but it still hasn't arrived, and she still feels wet down there.
Is this wetness a sign that her period is approaching? Could excessive fatigue from work cause her period to be delayed?

Xiao Li, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/05/18

Dr. Dai Qihan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Work fatigue and psychological stress can have an impact.
If you have any concerns, it is advisable to visit a gynecology clinic for an examination.

Reply Date: 2006/05/18

More Info

Delayed menstruation can be a source of anxiety for many individuals, especially when it comes to the possibility of pregnancy. In your case, it seems that your girlfriend is experiencing a delay in her menstrual cycle, which she typically expects to start on a specific day. However, she has mentioned that her periods can sometimes be late by a few days. This variability can be influenced by several factors, including stress, lifestyle changes, and physical exertion.

Firstly, it is important to understand that menstrual cycles can be affected by a variety of factors. Stress is a significant contributor to menstrual irregularities. Starting a new job, especially one that is physically or mentally demanding, can lead to increased stress levels. This stress can disrupt the hormonal balance necessary for a regular menstrual cycle, potentially causing a delay. In your girlfriend's case, the combination of starting a new job and feeling tired could indeed be contributing to her late period.

The "wetness" she is experiencing could be related to normal physiological changes that occur in the menstrual cycle. Many women notice changes in vaginal discharge throughout their cycle, particularly around ovulation and just before menstruation. Increased discharge can be a sign that her body is preparing for menstruation, but it is not a definitive indicator that her period is imminent.

Regarding the possibility of pregnancy, if you and your girlfriend have engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse, there is always a chance of conception, even if it seems unlikely. However, if she has taken a pregnancy test and it has returned negative, it is a strong indication that she is not pregnant, especially if the test was taken after a missed period. Pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period, as they measure the hormone hCG, which is produced after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus.

If her period does not arrive within a week or so, it may be advisable for her to consult a healthcare provider. A doctor can provide further evaluation and may suggest additional tests to rule out any underlying issues. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or other hormonal imbalances can also lead to irregular periods.

In summary, while a delayed period can be concerning, it is not always a sign of pregnancy, especially if there are other factors at play, such as stress and lifestyle changes. Encourage your girlfriend to monitor her symptoms and consider seeking medical advice if her period does not arrive soon. It's essential to approach this situation with patience and understanding, as menstrual health can be complex and influenced by many variables.

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