Missed Periods: Causes and Concerns for Women

Missed menstruation?

Hello, doctor.
I had intercourse with my girlfriend on September 26, and we used a condom.
She got her period on October 18 (her menstrual cycle has always been irregular), but she hasn't had her period since November until now (we haven't had intercourse since October).
What could be the reasons for her missing her period this month?

Duo He Shui, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/29

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
If menstruation has occurred, pregnancy is unlikely unless it is a false menstruation.
If the menstrual flow on October 18 was light, the possibility of a false menstruation should be considered, and a pregnancy test should be conducted to confirm whether pregnancy has occurred.

2.
If there is no pregnancy, it is likely that there is a menstrual irregularity.
Please seek medical evaluation for confirmation.

Respectfully, Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/11/29

More Info

Missed periods can be a source of concern for many women, and understanding the potential causes is crucial for addressing any underlying issues. In your case, since your girlfriend has a history of irregular menstrual cycles, there are several factors that could contribute to her missed period in November.

1. Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal fluctuations are one of the most common reasons for missed or irregular periods. Factors such as stress, changes in weight, or medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can disrupt the normal hormonal balance, leading to irregularities in the menstrual cycle.

2. Stress and Lifestyle Changes: Psychological stress can significantly impact menstrual cycles. High levels of stress can affect the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates hormones responsible for menstruation. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as alterations in diet, exercise, or sleep patterns can also play a role.

3. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can lead to missed periods. Conditions such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, or issues related to the reproductive system (like fibroids or endometriosis) can cause irregularities in the menstrual cycle.
4. Birth Control Methods: If your girlfriend has been using hormonal birth control in the past, it can take some time for her body to adjust after stopping. Even if she is not currently using any form of hormonal contraception, past usage can still affect her cycle.

5. Pregnancy: Although you mentioned that there was no sexual activity after her last period in October, it’s still important to consider the possibility of pregnancy, especially if there was any chance of contraceptive failure. If there’s any doubt, taking a home pregnancy test can provide clarity.

6. Age and Menopause: If your girlfriend is approaching her late 30s or early 40s, perimenopause could be a factor. This transitional phase before menopause can lead to irregular periods and other symptoms.

Given these factors, it is advisable for your girlfriend to consult with a healthcare provider. A thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly blood tests to check hormone levels, can help identify the underlying cause of her missed period.
In the meantime, it may be helpful for her to keep track of her menstrual cycle, noting any other symptoms she may be experiencing, such as changes in mood, weight fluctuations, or physical discomfort. This information can be valuable for her healthcare provider in determining the best course of action.

In conclusion, missed periods can arise from a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, medical conditions, and lifestyle changes. Encouraging your girlfriend to seek medical advice will not only help address her missed period but also provide peace of mind and ensure her overall reproductive health is monitored.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Missed Periods: Causes Beyond Pregnancy

Aside from the possibility of pregnancy, there are several other reasons why menstruation may be absent. These can include hormonal imbalances, stress, significant weight loss or gain, excessive exercise, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and certain medical co...

Dr. Jian Hongmou reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
(1) Besides pregnancy, there are several other possible reasons for a missed period: 1. Systemic diseases: Conditions such as gastrointestinal dysfunction, tuberculosis, nephritis, severe anemia, and anorexia can lead to this. 2. Hypothalamic causes: Psychological factors such as...

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 the Consequences of Missed Periods: What You Need to Know

I would like to ask what complications may arise from not having my period. I have taken a pregnancy test and confirmed that I am not pregnant, and it has been almost 2 months since my last period.

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: The most important step in addressing the absence of menstruation in non-pregnant individuals is to determine the underlying cause, such as elevated prolactin levels, hypothyroidism, premature ovarian failure, or simply anovulation. After identifying the cause, appropriate...

Understanding Menstrual Irregularities: Causes and Concerns

I finished my menstrual period on June 4th, but I had sexual intercourse on June 8th using a condom, and I checked afterward to ensure it didn't break or leak. My next period was due on June 29th, but it was delayed by five days, and when I took a pregnancy test on July 4th,...

Dr. Chen Zhiyu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, conditions such as hormonal imbalances or uterine fibroids, as well as psychological factors like stress from academics, work, or daily life, can all affect the menstrual cycle. It is recommended to maintain a regular lifestyle, avoid staying up late, ensure adequate sleep...