The following five reasons, excluding pregnancy, may explain why you are missing your monthly period.

Stress

Stress is the most common cause of missing a period. Stress can come as a result of physical or emotional hardships. During a stressful episode, your body may function a bit differently. Aside from headaches, weight gain, acne or other skin issues, the hypothalamus – the part of the brain that controls your menstrual cycle – is also affected. The irregular production of hormones from the hypothalamus may delay your period. Also, being stressed over a period of time may lead to illness, which in turn could lead to a missed period. If you think stress is the reason, carrying out some relaxing techniques may help you get back on track.

Weight problems

Weight problems are more than just being overweight. Being underweight is also a problem. Frankly, anything that causes your weight to fluctuate in an extreme manner can result in menstrual irregularity. Eating disorders or exercising excessively might be the culprit. Low body weight indicates a lacking amount of estrogen, which is needed to regulate the cycle and vice versa. Therefore, a balanced diet and exercise are ideal in this case.

(Read also: Probe links sugary drinks with earlier menstruation)

Medications and birth control

Some medications possibly have an effect on your monthly bleeding including antidepressants, antipsychotics and birth control medications. Birth control works by suppressing the hormones, nearly (if you take a low-dose pill) or totally, which thus stops the body from ovulating. You will expect a lack of menses during your period because there will be less or no lining to shed in the uterus.The morning-after-pill (the emergency contraceptive) can also delay the period. 

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Sometimes, hormonal imbalance may be the case. PCOS causes the male hormone, androgen, to overproduce and therefore the imbalance occurs. Accompanied signs are excess hair growth, acne, weight gain and, maybe, just maybe, infertility. The results range from irregular ovulation to missed menstruation. Your doctor may recommend some treatment plans including a birth control prescription.

Thyroid issues

The thyroid gland is responsible for the body’s metabolism. Metabolism ensures the body functions normally and, therefore, it affects hormones including estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. An over or underactive thyroid (hyper- or hypothyroidism) can cause late or missed periods. If you think that your unregulated cycle may have something to do with this, contact your doctor for a proper diagnosis. 

Besides the common reasons above, there are some more to look out for: a premature menopause, a chronic disease, a sudden change in your daily routine, or maybe it is just because of your lifestyle.

While missing your monthly period can be worrisome, it is better to stay calm and consult a doctor for a more precise description. (kes)