Why is my period late? 10 Reasons for a Late Period

The menstrual cycle (ovulation cycle, menstrual cycle) is a constant change in hormone levels. Hormones such as estrogen and progesterone influence the normal course of the cycle. These are supported by Follicle Stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles, and luteinising hormone (LH) which controls the release of an egg from a Graafian follicle. The menstrual cycle usually lasts 28 days. But a range of 21-35 days would be regarded as normal.

During the different phases of the menstrual cycle, hormones not only determine a woman's psyche and mood, but also her appearance.

Check your cycle: period tracker

The menstrual cycle usually lasts 28 days, but deviations of a few days - when the cycle lasts between 21 and 35 days - are no cause for concern. Such deviations of about 7 days from the established 28 days are not uncommon.

Irregular cycles - that is, cycles longer or shorter than these 21-35 days - usually occur in young girls who have been menstruating for a short time. Delayed period can also be caused by, among other things: stress, travel, excessive eating, too restrictive a diet, too low levels of thyroid hormones, too high levels of prolactin (hyperprolactinaemia), polycystic ovary syndrome. If irregular menstruation is present, always contact your gynaecologist.

If your period is late and you are wondering why my period is late, the first thing to do is to make sure you are not pregnant. If you have had intercourse in recent weeks, taking a pregnancy test is the first step.

A delayed period should also not be underestimated if other worrying symptoms are observed in addition:

• lower abdominal pains,
• back pain (in the lower back),
• acne,
• vaginal discharge,
• lethargy,
• irritability,
• constipation,
• excessive hairiness,
• being overweight or underweight.

Don’t worry. A late period is not as unusual as you may think. Causes of late periods vary: these are not always disease-causing. There are a bunch of reasons your period can be late.

Here are ten common reasons why your period is late: