Normally, women of childbearing age have regular periods once a month. When a woman is 48-50 years old, the cessation of menstruation indicates that the woman has entered menopause. However, there are many women who have delayed menstruation at a young age, and everyone will be inexplicably worried: Is my ovarian function not good?Approaching menopause?Today we will take a look at what are the common causes of delayed menstruation
1. Pregnancy. Pregnancy is one of the most common causes of delayed menstruation. If a woman suspects that she may be pregnant, a pregnancy test can be taken to confirm. A pregnancy test is usually done using a sample of urine or blood to determine the presence of progesterone, which is an important indicator of pregnancy.
2. Abnormal ovarian function.
The ovaries are vital organs that produce eggs and hormones. If there is a problem with ovarian function, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or premature ovarian failure, it can cause irregular or delayed menstruation. PCOS is a common endocrine disorder characterized by the presence of multiple cysts in the ovaries, resulting in elevated estrogen levels. Premature ovarian failure refers to the premature decline of ovarian function, resulting in the cessation of menstruation.
3. Hormonal imbalance.
Hormones are a key factor in regulating the menstrual cycle. If there is an imbalance in hormone levels in the body, such as thyroid problems, pituitary tumors, or adrenal gland problems, it can cause delayed menstruation. Thyroid problems can lead to hyperactive or hypothyroidism, which can affect hormone levels. A pituitary tumor is a benign tumor located within the pituitary gland at the base of the brain that may interfere with hormone production. Adrenal gland problems can lead to an imbalance in hormone levels such as adrenaline and cortisol.
4. Change in weight.
A sharp gain or loss of weight may affect a woman's menstrual cycle. Being overweight or being too thin can cause irregular or delayed menstruation. This is because weight changes affect hormone levels and metabolic rate in the body, which can affect the menstrual cycle. For example, some women will go through excessive dieting, which can easily lead to malnutrition, endocrine imbalance, and then amenorrhea.
5. Stress and emotional problems.
Long-term stress and emotional issues, such as anxiety, depression, or major life events, can interfere with a woman's menstrual cycle. This is because stress and mood problems can affect the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, which can affect hormone secretion and the menstrual cycle.
6. Drugs and **.
Certain medications and** methods, such as oral contraceptives, emergency contraceptives, chemotherapy or radiation, may have an impact on the menstrual cycle. Oral contraceptives prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and alter the growth and shedding cycle of the endometrium. Emergency contraceptives prevent pregnancy by interfering with ovulation. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can destroy cancer cells and affect the growth of normal cells.
7. Age. A woman's menstrual cycle is usually erratic at the onset of puberty and gradually becomes regular as she ages. However, in some cases, such as around menopause, the menstrual cycle may become irregular or delayed. Menopause is the process by which the female reproductive system gradually ceases to function, usually between the ages of 45 and 55.
8. Intrauterine adhesions.
If menstruation is normal, but after a uterine procedure (most commonly an abortion), the endometrium is severely damaged, and adhesions occur in the uterine cavity, which can lead to decreased menstrual flow or even amenorrhea.
Tips: If a woman has long-term menstrual abnormalities, it is recommended to go to a specialist clinic as soon as possible to clarify the cause according to the relevant examinations.