I Missed My Period — Now What

A calm and realistic guide for navigating period delays

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Missing a period can bring up a lot of emotions — curiosity, hope, stress, or just confusion.
Before jumping to conclusions, it helps to understand that a late period doesn’t always mean
something dramatic is happening. There are actually several possible reasons
for menstrual delays.

Common Reasons Your Period Might Be Late

• Stress: Emotional or physical stress can affect hormones and shift your cycle.
• Weight changes: Sudden gain or loss can influence menstrual timing.
• Exercise: Intense training can temporarily stop or delay periods.
• Hormonal changes: This includes puberty, perimenopause, and thyroid-related changes.
• Birth control: Pills, implants, and hormonal IUDs may delay or lighten periods.
• Pregnancy: One of the most well-known reasons for a missed period.

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Signs to Pay Attention To

Your body often gives hints when hormones shift. Some signs worth noticing include:

• Breast sensitivity
• Mood changes
• Mild cramping without bleeding
• Fatigue or low energy
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns

These signs don’t point to one specific cause, but they can help you understand what your body is doing.

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What to Do Next

If your period is late, here are reasonable next steps:

• Give it a few days: Many cycles vary naturally by 3–7 days.
• Check your routine: Recent stress, travel, exams, or training changes can all affect timing.
• If pregnancy is a possibility: Consider taking a test after a short delay for accuracy.
• Monitor other symptoms: This helps you understand patterns over time.

If your period doesn’t return for several cycles, or if you’re experiencing pain, long-lasting discomfort, or other concerns, a healthcare professional can help clarify what’s going on in a safe and supportive way.

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Your cycle is a part of your health story — paying attention to it is a form of self-care.