Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common causes.

1. Stress and Emotional Health

Stress is one of the most common disruptors of the menstrual cycle. When your body is under physical or emotional strain, it produces cortisol—commonly known as the “stress hormone.” High cortisol levels can interfere with the hypothalamus, which controls hormones that regulate your period.

What to watch for:
If your periods become irregular after a major life event—such as exams, a breakup, work pressure, or grief—stress may be the cause.

Tip: Incorporating stress-reducing activities like yoga, mindfulness, and regular sleep patterns may help restore your cycle.

2. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects 1 in 10 women of childbearing age. It leads to irregular ovulation or anovulation (lack of ovulation), which often causes missed or delayed periods.

Other symptoms include:

• Acne

• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight

• Excess facial or body hair

• Thinning scalp hair

• Dark patches on the skin (especially around the neck or armpits)

PCOS is also a leading cause of infertility, but it can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication.

3. Thyroid Disorders

Your thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating your metabolism and hormone balance. Both an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) and an underactive one (hypothyroidism) can impact your menstrual cycle.

Symptoms may include:

• Fatigue or restlessness

• Weight changes

• Sensitivity to cold or heat

• Irregular or absent periods

A simple blood test can detect thyroid hormone levels and help your doctor determine the next steps.

4. Sudden Weight Loss or Gain

Your body needs a certain amount of fat to produce hormones essential for ovulation. Rapid weight loss from extreme dieting or eating disorders can disrupt hormone production and lead to amenorrhea (absence of menstruation).

Likewise, obesity can lead to excess estrogen production, causing hormonal imbalances that affect your cycle.

Common signs to look out for:

• Unintentional weight changes

• Changes in appetite

• Menstrual irregularity that coincides with weight changes

5. Over-Exercising

Excessive physical activity—especially in athletes, dancers, or bodybuilders—can affect the balance of reproductive hormones and stop ovulation.

You might be overexercising if you:

• Exercise intensely every day without rest

• Have very low body fat

• Miss periods regularly despite otherwise being healthy

Moderation and balanced nutrition are key.

6. Perimenopause and Menopause

As women approach their 40s, menstrual cycles naturally start to become irregular due to hormonal shifts that signal the beginning of menopause (the end of menstruation).

Perimenopause symptoms include:

• Hot flashes

• Mood swings

• Night sweats

• Irregular periods

• Sleep disturbances

This transition can last for several years before periods stop completely.

7. Contraceptive Use

Starting or stopping hormonal birth control (like the pill, patch, or IUD) can affect your periods temporarily. Some women stop bleeding altogether, while others experience spotting or cycle changes for several months.

Emergency contraception (like the morning-after pill) can also delay your next period by a few days or a week.

If irregular bleeding persists for more than 3 months after starting or stopping a contraceptive method, speak with your gynecologist.

8. Underlying Health Conditions

Certain chronic illnesses can also impact menstrual regularity. These include:

• Diabetes (especially if poorly controlled)

• Celiac disease

• Pituitary tumors

• Adrenal gland disorders

These conditions can interfere with hormone balance, affecting ovulation and menstruation.

When Should You See a Gynecologist?

If you notice irregularities in your cycle, you don’t have to suffer in silence. It’s important to see a gynecologist if you experience:

• No period for 3 consecutive months (and you’re not pregnant)

• Periods shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days

• Heavy bleeding that soaks through pads or tampons every hour

• Bleeding between periods or after intercourse

• Severe pelvic pain or cramping

• Unexplained weight changes, acne, or excessive hair growth

• How a Gynecologist Can Help

  At [Your Clinic Name], we take a personalized approach to menstrual health. Your gynecologist may perform:

  • A detailed medical history review

  • Physical examination including a pelvic exam

  • Ultrasound scan to check for PCOS or uterine issues

  • Blood tests to evaluate hormone levels or rule out thyroid and other endocrine disorders

  Based on the findings, we create a treatment plan which may include:

  • Lifestyle and dietary modifications

  • Hormonal therapies

  • Birth control regulation

  • Treatment for underlying conditions like PCOS or thyroid disease

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  Final Thoughts

  While the occasional late period may not be serious, frequent irregularities can be a signal from your body that something is off. Paying attention to your cycle helps you stay in tune with your overall health.

  Whether you’re a teenager just starting your period, someone planning for pregnancy, or navigating the changes of perimenopause, your menstrual health matters.

  📅 If your periods have become unpredictable, don’t wait.
  👉 Schedule a consultation with our expert gynecology team today and take the first step toward hormonal balance and peace of mind.