My period is very regular, why is it suddenly delayed?

Sudden delay in menstruation may be caused by mental stress, sudden weight change, drug influence, polycystic ovary syndrome, thyroid dysfunction, etc. It can be intervened by adjusting lifestyle, drug treatment, etc.

1. Mental pressure

Long-term anxiety or mood swings may inhibit hypothalamic function, leading to disrupted gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion. Typical manifestations include prolonged menstrual cycle accompanied by insomnia and changes in appetite. It is recommended to relieve stress through mindfulness meditation and regular exercise. If necessary, you can use Wuling Capsules, Zaoren Anshen Capsules and other Chinese patent medicines as auxiliary adjustments as directed by your doctor.

2. Sudden change in weight

Losing more than 10% of body weight in a short period of time may cause amenorrhea, and loss of adipose tissue will affect estrogen synthesis. People who diet excessively may suffer from hypometabolic symptoms such as thinning hair and chills. It is necessary to gradually restore a balanced diet and increase the intake of high-quality protein and healthy fats, such as eggs, avocados, etc.

3. Drug effects

Emergency contraceptive pills, antidepressants, etc. may interfere with hormone levels. Delayed withdrawal bleeding may occur after discontinuation of progestins. Delayed menstruation after using levonorgestrel tablets is a common drug reaction. It usually recovers on its own in 1-2 cycles. If the abnormality persists, six hormones must be reviewed.

4. Polycystic ovary syndrome

Excessive androgens can inhibit follicular development, manifesting as oligomenorrhea accompanied by acne and hirsutism. Ultrasound examination shows polycystic changes in the ovaries. After diagnosis, you can use ethinyl estradiol and cyproterone tablets as directed by your doctor to adjust the cycle, and use metformin sustained-release tablets to improve insulin resistance.

5. Abnormal thyroid function

Elevated TSH in patients with hypothyroidism will inhibit ovarian function, and common delayed menstruation combined with fatigue and constipation is common. Hyperthyroidism may cause cycle shortening. Five thyroid tests are required, and levothyroxine sodium tablets or methimazole tablets are used for treatment based on the results. During this period, hormone levels are monitored regularly.

It is recommended to record the changes in the menstrual cycle in the past three months and avoid excessive dieting and staying up late. If there is a sudden delay of more than 7 days, a pregnancy test is required to rule out pregnancy. If the abnormality persists for 2 months, a gynecological ultrasound and sex hormone test should be performed. Phytoestrogen foods such as flax seeds and soy products can be consumed in moderation on a daily basis, but they cannot replace regular treatment. For exercise, it is recommended to choose moderate to low-intensity projects such as yoga and swimming, and maintain regular exercise 3-5 times a week.