What To Do When You Miss Your Period: A Guide
Missing a period can be a cause for concern or excitement, depending on the circumstances. Whether you’re actively trying to conceive or not, the absence of a menstrual cycle can trigger a range of emotions and questions. While there are various reasons why your period might be late, it’s important to understand what’s happening with your body. This blog is here to help you understand what to do when you miss your period and guide you through the next steps.
First Things First
• Take a pregnancy test. This is the most crucial step, even if you aren’t pregnant because early confirmation is important for your health. Most drugstores offer reliable home pregnancy tests. If the test is positive schedule an appointment with a medical professional to get a confirmation test.
• Track your cycle. If the test is negative and your period is usually regular, try not to stress too much, as periods can fluctuate for various reasons. However, if you don’t normally track your cycle, consider using a period-tracking app or a simple calendar to monitor your periods going forward. This can help you identify patterns and determine if your cycle is consistently irregular.
• Listen to your body. If you take a pregnancy test too soon, it could be negative even if you’re pregnant. Pay attention to other symptoms you may be experiencing, such as nausea, breast tenderness, or fatigue. If symptoms persist, take another test and/or contact a healthcare provider for more accurate diagnosis.
Understanding the Reasons for a Missed Period
Here are some common reasons why your period might be late, besides pregnancy:
• Stress: Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your hormones, leading to missed or irregular periods. Consider techniques for reducing stress, such as deep breathing, exercise, or prayer and medication.
• Hormonal imbalance: Hormones are powerful signals; even a slight fluctuation can cause changes in the body. While many of these imbalances require treatment, some can be temporary and go away on their own.
• Weight changes: Significant weight gain or loss can disrupt your menstrual cycle. Make sure you are getting the proper nutrients to allow your body to produce hormones necessary for ovulation.
• Underlying medical conditions: A number of conditions and certain medications can affect your cycle. Consult a medical professional with questions.
When to See a Doctor
A regular menstrual cycle occurs roughly every 28 days. If you have missed more than three periods in a row, it’s important to schedule an appointment to rule out pregnancy or an underlying condition. If you are experiencing other worrying symptoms along with a missed period like pelvic pain, unusual vaginal discharge, or abnormal bleeding, see a doctor as soon as possible or visit the emergency room.
Additional Resources and Support
At EPS, we understand that a missed period can be a confusing and frightening experience. We offer compassionate support and resources during this time. A trained, licensed nurse can speak with you confidentially and provide information about all your options, including:
• Testing: Providing pregnancy testing, STD/STI Testing, and ultrasounds.
• Prenatal care: Connecting you with resources for prenatal care and information about healthy pregnancy habits.
• Adoption information Providing information about the adoption process.
• Parenting resources: Connecting you with resources and programs for new mothers and fathers.
Remember:
We are here to listen and support you in any way we can. You are not alone. Call 402-554-1000 or text 402-566-5579 and let us know how we can help today!
Essential Pregnancy Services is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Nebraska. Our services are provided to clients without regard to age, race, income, nationality, religious affiliation, disability, or arbitrary circumstances. The information on this site is for education purposes only and should not be substituted for medical or legal advice. We do not provide or refer for abortions or emergency contraception, and we do not profit from any of your sexual health or pregnancy decisions. Contact us to learn more.