Why your period is late (other than pregnancy)

A late period doesn’t always mean pregnancy. Your menstrual cycle is influenced by hormones, lifestyle habits, stress levels, medications, and underlying health conditions. Here are six common reasons your period may be late that have nothing to do with pregnancy. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Excessive Exercise: Athletes or people who suddenly increase intense workouts may experience delayed or absent periods. This happens when the body shifts energy away from reproductive hormones. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Illness and Travel: Recent infections, chronic illness, or certain medications (like antidepressants or steroids) may delay periods. Even long distance travel or changes in sleep cycles affect hormonal rhythms. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Hormonal Imbalance: PCOS is a leading cause of late or irregular periods. Symptoms include acne, increased facial hair, weight gain, and skipped cycles due to irregular ovulation. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Stress and Anxiety: High stress increases cortisol, which interferes with the hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle. Emotional stress, exams, work pressure, or major life changes may shift your cycle. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Thyroid Disorders: Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can disrupt menstrual timing. The thyroid regulates metabolism and hormones, when it’s off, cycles become irregular. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Weight Fluctuations: Sudden weight loss, extreme dieting, or rapid weight gain can disrupt oestrogen levels. Low body fat means irregular or missing periods. High body fat means delayed ovulation. (Source: Photo by unsplash)