Missed Period: Causes, Pregnancy Testing & Early Signs

A missed period is a classic early pregnancy sign, but many other factors can delay menstruation:

Non-Pregnancy Causes

• Stress (physical or emotional)
• Illness (acute or chronic)
• Significant weight change or excessive exercise
• Hormonal imbalances (thyroid, PCOS, prolactin)
• Medications (contraceptives, antipsychotics, chemotherapy)
• Perimenopause

Pregnancy Testing

• Home urine tests detect hCG; most accurate ≥1 week after missed period.
• If negative but pregnancy still suspected, repeat in a few days or get a quantitative blood hCG test.

Other Early Pregnancy Signs

• Fatigue
• Nausea/vomiting
• Breast tenderness
• Bloating, constipation
• Frequent urination

Boosting Conception Chances

• Track cycles to identify fertile window (apps, OPKs, basal body temperature).
• Have sex every 1–2 days during fertile window.
• Prenatal vitamin with folic acid.
• Healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management.

If not pregnant after 12 months (<35) or 6 months (≥35), consult a fertility specialist.