General Anesthesia and Period Delay: What You Need to Know

Yes, having surgery under general anesthetic can delay your period.

General anesthesia can disrupt the body's normal hormonal balance, which can in turn affect the menstrual cycle. The specific effects of general anesthesia on the menstrual cycle can vary from person to person, but some common changes include:

* Delayed period: General anesthesia can cause the next period to arrive later than expected. In some cases, the delay may be only a few days, while in other cases it may be longer.

* Missed period: In some cases, general anesthesia can cause a missed period altogether. This is more likely to occur if the surgery is performed during the second half of the menstrual cycle.

* Early period: In rare cases, general anesthesia can cause the next period to arrive earlier than expected. This is more likely to occur if the surgery is performed during the first half of the menstrual cycle.

The effects of general anesthesia on the menstrual cycle are usually temporary and will resolve within a few months. However, if you are concerned about how general anesthesia may affect your menstrual cycle, talk to your doctor before your surgery.