Delayed Periods: What to Do When Your Girlfriend's Menstruation is Late

Q: Delayed Periods: What to Do When Your Girlfriend's Menstruation is Late

Hello： Regarding your question, here is the response： (1) The initiation of the menstrual cycle begins with the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, which stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). <br>FSH th

My girlfriend hasn't gotten her period yet?

I would like to ask! My girlfriend's period started on January 28, so I calculated that it should be around February 25, but it hasn't come yet.
However, on February 27, she experienced breast tenderness, which went away on the 29th.
Today is March 3, and she still hasn't gotten her period.
We always used condoms! What should I do? Also, three months ago, my girlfriend's period was almost a month late, and her mother took her to see a traditional Chinese medicine doctor, after which her cycle became regular again.
Additionally, her breast tenderness started after she finished the herbal medicine; she didn't experience it before.
Could it be that her cycle is becoming regular again?

Xiao Su, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/03/02

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: Regarding your question, here is the response: (1) The initiation of the menstrual cycle begins with the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, which stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
FSH then stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles, which secrete estrogen.
Estrogen further stimulates the proliferation of the endometrium.
If pregnancy does not occur, the endometrium sheds, resulting in menstruation.
(2) Therefore, if there is a delay in menstruation, pregnancy must first be ruled out.
If pregnancy is not the cause, further diagnosis is needed to determine where the issue lies within the entire hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis.
Most commonly, the cause is due to excessive stress, which can suppress the secretion of GnRH.
Additionally, certain medications (such as sedatives and sleeping pills) can also affect the hypothalamus.
It is advisable to consult a gynecologist for a thorough examination of the entire HPG axis.
Thank you for your inquiry!

Reply Date: 2012/03/02

More Info

When dealing with a delayed menstrual period in your girlfriend, it's important to approach the situation with sensitivity and understanding. A missed period can be a source of anxiety for many women, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in diet or exercise, and, of course, pregnancy.
In your case, since you mentioned that you and your girlfriend have been using condoms consistently, the likelihood of pregnancy is reduced, but it is not entirely eliminated. Condoms can fail due to breakage or slippage, so it's always wise to consider this possibility. However, given that your girlfriend has a history of irregular periods, it’s also possible that her cycle is simply fluctuating again.

The fact that her last period was on January 28 and she has not yet menstruated by March 3 suggests that she is indeed late. If her cycle typically runs around 28 days, she would expect her next period around February 25. However, cycles can vary, and many women experience delays for various reasons.
You mentioned that her breasts were tender and swollen around February 27, which can be a common premenstrual symptom. This could indicate that her body is preparing for menstruation, but if the period does not arrive, it could also suggest other underlying issues. The fact that she had a previous episode of delayed menstruation that resolved after seeing a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner indicates that her menstrual health may be influenced by factors that are not purely physiological, such as stress or lifestyle changes.

Here are some steps you can take to support your girlfriend during this time:
1. Encourage a Pregnancy Test: If there is any concern about the possibility of pregnancy, it would be prudent for her to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are generally accurate if taken after a missed period.

2. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If her period remains absent, it would be wise for her to consult a healthcare provider. A doctor can help determine if there are any underlying health issues that need to be addressed, such as hormonal imbalances or other medical conditions.

3. Monitor Stress Levels: Stress can significantly impact menstrual cycles. Encourage her to engage in stress-reducing activities, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies she enjoys.

4. Discuss Lifestyle Factors: Changes in weight, diet, and exercise can also affect menstrual regularity. If she has made any significant changes in these areas, it might be worth discussing how they could be impacting her cycle.

5. Be Supportive: Emotional support is crucial. Let her know that you are there for her and that it’s okay to feel anxious about this situation. Open communication about her feelings can help alleviate some of the stress.

6. Consider Traditional Remedies: Since she has previously sought help from a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, if she feels comfortable, she might consider revisiting them for advice on regulating her cycle.

In summary, while a delayed period can be concerning, it is not uncommon and can be influenced by many factors. Encouraging her to take a pregnancy test and consult a healthcare professional if her period does not arrive soon would be the best course of action. Your support and understanding during this time will be invaluable to her.

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