Late Period: Causes & What To Do If You're Not Pregnant

Possible reasons for a late period:

- Hormonal imbalances: Stress, thyroid problems, and certain medications can affect your menstrual cycle.

- Pregnancy: Even with protection, there is still a small chance of pregnancy. It's best to take a pregnancy test to rule this out.

- Infections or illnesses: Certain infections, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can cause irregular periods.

- Lifestyle factors: Excessive exercise, weight gain or loss, and poor diet can all impact your menstrual cycle.

- Medication side effects: Some medications, such as birth control pills, antidepressants, and steroids, can cause irregular bleeding.

- Perimenopause: If you are approaching menopause, your periods may become irregular or stop altogether.

If you are concerned about your late period, it's best to see your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. They may recommend a pregnancy test, blood tests, or an ultrasound to determine the cause of your delayed period.