Why Is My Period Delayed? Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Q: Why Is My Period Delayed? Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Hello： Menstrual irregularities are often related to abnormal ovarian ovulation. <br>After taking medication to induce menstruation and confirming a negative pregnancy test, most individuals will experience their period within 3 to 5 days after completing the medication, although

Menstruation still hasn't arrived?

Hello, Doctor: My last menstrual period started on October 31, and I have not had my period since then.
In late December, I experienced 5 days of abnormal bleeding, which I thought was my period, but it was accompanied by brown discharge and was not heavy—about the amount of one panty liner per day.
At the beginning of January, I visited a doctor, and after an ultrasound, the doctor said my endometrium was still thick, indicating that my period had not truly arrived.
I also took a pregnancy test, which confirmed that I am not pregnant.
Therefore, the doctor prescribed me 5 tablets of Provera (pink oval-shaped pills), instructing me to take one per day, and said that my period should start within 3 to 5 days after finishing the medication.
However, today is the fifth day, and my period still has not come, although I do feel some breast tenderness.
What should I do? I would like to know: 1.
Why has my period not come after almost 3 months? 2.
What could be the cause of the 5 days of brown discharge? 3.
I have taken the medication to induce my period, but it still has not arrived.
What should I do? What could be the cause? Is there any underlying condition? Thank you, Doctor!

W, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/01/18

Dr. Dong Yuhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: Menstrual irregularities are often related to abnormal ovarian ovulation.
After taking medication to induce menstruation and confirming a negative pregnancy test, most individuals will experience their period within 3 to 5 days after completing the medication, although some may take up to around 10 days.
It is advisable to visit a gynecologist for a follow-up examination.
If there has been sexual intercourse and menstrual irregularities persist, another pregnancy test should be conducted.
If menstrual irregularities continue after medical treatment, a follow-up appointment should be made for further evaluation.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2010/01/18

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a frustrating and concerning situation with your menstrual cycle. Let's break down your questions and understand the possible reasons behind your delayed period and the other symptoms you're experiencing.

1. Why has my period not come for almost three months?
There are several reasons why a menstrual cycle can be delayed or irregular. Common causes include hormonal imbalances, stress, significant weight changes (either loss or gain), excessive exercise, or underlying medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders. Given that you had a thickened endometrial lining, it suggests that your body may be producing estrogen without the corresponding progesterone to trigger menstruation. This can lead to a condition known as anovulation, where ovulation does not occur, resulting in a lack of menstrual bleeding.

2. What was the cause of the five days of brown discharge?
The brown discharge you experienced could be old blood that was not expelled during your last menstrual cycle. This can happen when the menstrual flow is light or when there is a hormonal imbalance. It can also be a sign of spotting, which may occur due to various reasons, including hormonal fluctuations, the onset of a new cycle, or even the effects of medications like Provera, which can cause changes in your menstrual flow.

3. What should I do since my period has not come after taking Provera?
If you have taken the prescribed Provera and your period has not started within the expected timeframe, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider. There could be several reasons for this, including the possibility that your body did not respond to the medication as expected. It’s also possible that there may be other underlying issues that need to be addressed, such as hormonal imbalances or other gynecological conditions.

In terms of next steps, I recommend the following:
- Follow-Up Appointment: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider. They may want to perform additional tests, such as blood tests to check hormone levels (like estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones) or further imaging studies to assess your reproductive organs.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any other symptoms you may experience, such as changes in weight, mood swings, or any other unusual signs. This information can be helpful for your doctor in diagnosing the issue.

- Lifestyle Considerations: Consider factors that may be affecting your menstrual cycle, such as stress levels, diet, exercise, and sleep patterns. Sometimes, making lifestyle adjustments can help regulate your cycle.

- Medication Review: Discuss with your doctor any other medications you may be taking and how they might affect your menstrual cycle.

In conclusion, irregular menstrual cycles can be caused by a variety of factors, and it’s essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Don’t hesitate to reach out for further evaluation and support. Your health and well-being are paramount, and understanding your body is the first step toward addressing any concerns you may have.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Causes and Solutions

I haven't had sex this month, the weather is cold, I have to work, I go to bed late, and I have to wake up early. My period is also delayed; it was supposed to come at the end of January, but it's already five days late. I'm craving chocolate, and my bowel movement...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it is normal for menstruation to occasionally be irregular due to various reasons; just observe it. However, if it has been more than a week and you still haven't had your period, it is advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Irregular Periods: Causes and Concerns for Women

My menstrual cycle has been irregular lately. I started my period on June 23, but in July it came on the 29th, which is a delay of seven days. Normally, I would expect my period to arrive on August 29, but today is September 2 and it still hasn't come. My periods used to be ...

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
If menstruation is consistently delayed by seven days each month, it indicates a regular menstrual cycle, occurring every 37 days. If there has been unprotected intercourse after July, a delayed period could indeed suggest the possibility of pregnancy. A delayed period is not the...

Why Is My Period Late? Understanding Irregular Menstrual Cycles

My menstrual cycle usually starts around the 8th of the month, with an average cycle length of 30 to 35 days. However, I still haven't gotten my period. I went to the hospital for a check-up, and the doctor said I am not pregnant and advised me to wait another week or two. I...

Dr. Wu Zongcheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Reply: When menstruation is delayed, there are three main possibilities: (1) Pregnancy: If a pregnancy test shows negative results, wait for two weeks to retest, as sometimes menstrual cycles can be irregular and testing too early may yield false negatives. (2) Ovarian dysfunctio...

Understanding Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Causes and Solutions

Previously, my menstrual cycle lasted about 7 days and would be delayed by one or two days each month. However, recently it has been delayed by six or seven days, and the cycle can last up to eight or nine days. The menstrual flow is still similar to before, but I'm unsure w...

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Based on your description, it may be anovulatory menstruation. If your cycles are irregular for three consecutive months, you should visit a hospital for ovulation medication or hormonal regulation.