7 causes of delayed periods in women: Effects on body and overall health

Delayed periods can be caused by an unhealthy lifestyle.

Although a woman's menstrual cycle might vary considerably from an individual to individual, an abrupt delay in periods can be unsettling. Medically referred to as Oligomenorrhea, delayed periods can be caused by several environmental and physiological variables. To manage reproductive health and general wellbeing, it is vital to comprehend the causes of delayed periods as well as any potential health implications.

According to Dr Deepika Aggarwal, Director — Obs and gynae, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, these are 7 primary causes of delayed periods:

Stress: By upsetting the hormonal balance controlled by the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries, chronic stress can have a substantial negative effect on the menstrual cycle. Excessive levels of stress can postpone menstruation by delaying ovulation.

Weight fluctuations: Notable increases or decreases in weight might have an impact on hormone levels, which can cause irregular or postponed periods. A reduction in estrogen levels brought on by low body weight or severe activity can throw off the menstrual cycle.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a common endocrine condition that interferes with proper ovulation and can produce irregular or non-existent periods due to the presence of many tiny cysts on the ovaries.

Thyroid disorders: Menstrual periods can be impacted by both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hormone regulation is mostly dependent on the thyroid gland, and any imbalance might cause irregular or delayed periods.

Birth control and medications: Menstrual periods can be changed by hormonal contraceptives, which include tablets, patches, and injections. Certain drugs, such antipsychotics and antidepressants, can also affect how regularly a woman gets her periods.

Perimenopause: As menopause approaches, women may have irregular periods as a result of shifting hormone levels. Variations in the length and flow of the menstrual cycle are the hallmarks of perimenopause, which can start several years before menopause.

Underlying health conditions: Menstrual health can be impacted by autoimmune illnesses, diabetes, and celiac disease, among other conditions. Menstrual regularity and the body's general hormonal balance might be impacted by chronic conditions.

Effects of Delayed Periods on Body and Health:

Hormonal imbalance: Mood swings, weight gain, acne, and hair loss are just a few of the symptoms that can result from an underlying hormonal imbalance, which is frequently indicated by delayed periods, says Dr Aggarwal

Fertility problems: Women who are trying to conceive may find it difficult to achieve ovulation due to irregular or delayed periods. Reproductive planning requires knowing the cause of irregular menstruation and taking appropriate action.

Effect on mental health: Menstrual abnormalities can lead to worry and anxiety, especially in women who are worried about becoming pregnant or having health issues. Hormonal imbalances might be made worse by long-term stress brought on by missed cycles.

Bone health: Bone density can also be impacted by hormonal abnormalities that alter menstrual cycles. Over time, certain conditions such as low estrogen levels might raise the risk of osteoporosis.

Metabolic changes: Insulin resistance is a result of conditions like PCOS, which raises the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular illnesses. It's critical to treat the underlying reason of delayed periods in order to avoid long-term health issues.