Pregnancy is one, the most obvious, but not the only reason for a late period.
The monthly menstrual cycle is regulated by hormones. It starts with the hypothalamus, which sends a signal to the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland releases FSH to the ovaries. As the cycle progresses, the other hormones, LH, progesterone and estrogen are released. Any thing that interferes with this hormonal balance can trigger an irregularity in your menstrual cycle.
Stress and anxiety, excessive weight loss or weight gain, eating disorders, certain medications including antidepressants and oral corticosteroids, and hormonal imbalance or problems with your thyroid gland cause a late period.
If your period is late beyond one week, you could take a home pregnancy test. But, if you have not had penetrating vaginal sex, I don't think you are pregnant. If you continue to not get your period in December and January, you might want to schedule an appointment with your physician.
Comment Reply
Hello anon345,
Pregnancy is one, the most obvious, but not the only reason for a late period.
The monthly menstrual cycle is regulated by hormones. It starts with the hypothalamus, which sends a signal to the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland releases FSH to the ovaries. As the cycle progresses, the other hormones, LH, progesterone and estrogen are released. Any thing that interferes with this hormonal balance can trigger an irregularity in your menstrual cycle.
Stress and anxiety, excessive weight loss or weight gain, eating disorders, certain medications including antidepressants and oral corticosteroids, and hormonal imbalance or problems with your thyroid gland cause a late period.
If your period is late beyond one week, you could take a home pregnancy test. But, if you have not had penetrating vaginal sex, I don't think you are pregnant. If you continue to not get your period in December and January, you might want to schedule an appointment with your physician.
Maryann
December 4, 2012 - 6:17pmThis Comment
Reply