MENTRUAL PERIOD, MISSED OR LATE

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

Symptom Definition

• Late Menstrual Period: 5 or more days overdue compared to usual menstrual cycle.
• Missed Menstrual Period: no menstrual flow for more than 6 weeks.

General Information

• The first day of menstrual bleeding is considered the first day of a new menstrual cycle.
• Menstrual bleeding typically lasts 3-7 days.
• Ovulation generally occurs around day 14 of the cycle.
• The length of the menstrual cycle varies from woman to woman. The range is from 24 to 35 days. The average is 28 days.

Causes

• Pregnancy is the most important cause. This possibility needs to be considered in any woman who has a missed or late period.
• Stress
• Dieting, exercise and weight loss
• Menopause
• Polycystic ovarian disease
• Birth control pills
• Depoprovera injection
• Pituitary and other endocrine disorders

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

• ABDOMINAL PAIN, FEMALE
• VAGINAL BLEEDING, ABNORMAL

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Adult SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2004

See Other Topics:

• Abdominal Pain, Female
• Vaginal Bleeding, Abnormal

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