24 common signs your period is not coming

Here are 20 common signs that your period may be delayed or not coming:

1. Irregular menstrual cycles 
2. Unusual vaginal discharge or changes in discharge
3. Absence of premenstrual symptoms 
4. No breast tenderness or swelling 
5. Changes in appetite or cravings
6. Fatigue or unusual tiredness
7. Headaches or migraines
8. Changes in skin texture
9. Changes in libido or sex drive
10. Hot flashes as symptoms of menopause
11. Weight gain or loss
12. Changes in bowel movements or digestive issues
13. Unusual hair growth or hair loss
14. Mood changes or depression
15. Medical conditions such as thyroid problems or PCOS
16. Discontinuation or newly starting of OCP
17. Stress
18. Traveling to different time zones
19. Undergone surgery or serious illness
20. Breast feeding
21. Recently starting or discontinuing an exercise programme
22. Using medications like  antipsychotics or chemotherapy drugs
23. Change in your diet plan, such as going on a restrictive diet or starting a new supplement regimen.
24. Undergoing eating disorder

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

1.Irregular menstrual cycles 

Irregular menstrual cycles can certainly delay periods. The length of a menstrual cycle can vary from person to person, but the average length is around 28 days. However, some people have cycles that are shorter or longer than this, or they may have cycles that are irregular and vary in length from month to month.

If you have irregular menstrual cycles, it can be difficult to predict exactly when your period will start. This is because the length of your menstrual cycle can vary each month, and ovulation may occur at different times in your cycle. If ovulation is delayed or doesn’t happen, this can delay your period.

2.Unusual vaginal discharge or changes in discharge

Unusual vaginal discharge or changes in discharge can be a sign of many things, including changes in hormonal levels or an infection. While changes in vaginal discharge may sometimes be associated with changes in menstrual cycles.

It’s important to note that vaginal discharge is normal and healthy, as it helps to keep the vagina clean and healthy. However, changes in the amount, color, texture, or odor of vaginal discharge may be a sign of an underlying issue.

If you are sexually active and experiencing unusual discharge or other symptoms, it’s important to get tested for sexually transmitted infections.

3.Absence of premenstrual symptoms  

Premenstrual symptoms can vary widely from person to person and even from cycle to cycle. Some people may experience a wide range of symptoms, including bloating, cramps, mood changes, and breast tenderness, while others may have few or no symptoms at all.

4.Absence of breast tenderness or swelling

Breast tenderness and swelling is a common symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Menstrual cycles can vary in length and symptoms from person to person and even from cycle to cycle in the same person.

Other common signs that a person’s period may be on its way include cramping, bloating, mood changes, and a change in vaginal discharge. 

5.Changes in appetite or cravings 

Changes in appetite or cravings alone are not reliable signs that your period is not coming. While some women may experience changes in their appetite or food cravings before their period, these symptoms can also be caused by other factors such as stress, illness, or changes in diet.

The most reliable signs that your period may not be coming include missed periods, irregular periods, or other changes in your menstrual cycle. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

6.Fatigue or unusual tiredness 

Fatigue or unusual tiredness can be associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or early pregnancy, but they are not necessarily signs that your period is not coming. Many women experience fatigue or tiredness during their menstrual cycle due to hormonal fluctuations, and it is a common symptom of PMS.

However, if you are experiencing persistent or extreme fatigue, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to rule out other underlying medical conditions such as anemia or thyroid disorders.

7.Headaches 

Headaches can be a symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and for some women, they may be a sign that their period is not coming. 

If you frequently experience headaches before your period or during your menstrual cycle, it may be helpful to keep a headache diary to track when they occur and what triggers them. This can help you and your healthcare provider determine if they are related to your menstrual cycle or if there may be other underlying causes that need to be addressed.

8.Nausea or vomiting 

Nausea or vomiting is not typically a sign that your period is not coming. While some women may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or vomiting before or during their period, these symptoms can also be caused by a variety of other factors such as food poisoning, stomach flu, or other medical conditions.

If you are experiencing persistent or severe nausea or vomiting, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

The most reliable signs that your period may not be coming include missed periods, irregular periods, or other changes in your menstrual cycle. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

9.Changes in skin texture  

Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can sometimes cause changes in skin texture such as dryness, oiliness, or increased sensitivity, these changes are often mild and temporary.

If you are experiencing persistent or severe changes in skin texture, it may be helpful to speak with a dermatologist to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Other factors such as genetics, skincare routine, and environmental factors can also impact skin texture.

10.Changes in libido 

Changes in sexual desire or arousal during the menstrual cycle is common,, these changes are often due to fluctuations in hormone levels.

It is normal for sexual desire to fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, with some women experiencing an increase in libido around ovulation and others experiencing a decrease in libido during their period.

11.Weight gain 

Weight gain is not typically a sign that your period is not coming. Some women may experience water retention and bloating during their menstrual cycle, this is often a temporary condition and not a significant or sustained weight gain.

If you are experiencing persistent or significant weight gain, it may be helpful to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Factors such as diet, exercise, hormonal imbalances, and underlying medical conditions can all contribute to weight gain.

12.Changes in bowel movements 

Changes in bowel movements are not typically a reliable indicator of whether or not your period is coming. While it’s true that hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle can affect your digestive system and cause changes in bowel movements for some people, these changes are not always a reliable sign of an impending period.

Other factors, such as changes in diet, stress levels, and medications, can also affect your bowel movements and make them different from what you are used to. Therefore, it’s important to pay attention to other symptoms and signs of your menstrual cycle, such as changes in vaginal discharge, breast tenderness, and mood swings, to help determine whether or not your period is on its way.

13.Unusual hair growth or hair loss 

Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can affect hair growth, hair loss, or hair thinning, these changes are not always directly linked to the onset or delay of a period.

Other factors such as genetics, stress levels, medication, and underlying health conditions can also affect hair growth and cause hair loss or thinning.

14.Mood changes

Mood changes can be a sign that your period is not coming, particularly if you experience changes in your mood around the time when your period is due. The hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle can affect the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, which can lead to changes in mood, such as irritability, mood swings, anxiety, and depression.

However, it’s important to note that mood changes can also be caused by a variety of other factors, such as stress, lack of sleep, and underlying mental health conditions. Therefore, it’s important to pay attention to other symptoms and signs of your menstrual cycle, such as changes in vaginal discharge, breast tenderness, and abdominal cramps to help determine whether or not your period is on its way.

If you are experiencing significant mood changes that are affecting your daily life, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying mental health conditions and discuss potential treatment options.

15. Medical conditions 

Medical conditions such as thyroid problems or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can have significant effects on the menstrual cycle.

Thyroid problems, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can disrupt the hormonal balance in the body, leading to changes in the menstrual cycle. Hypothyroidism, which occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, can cause menstrual irregularities, including heavier or longer periods, or periods that are further apart. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, can lead to lighter or shorter periods, or periods that are closer together.

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It is characterized by the presence of multiple cysts on the ovaries, which can cause an imbalance of hormones in the body. Women with PCOS often have irregular periods or may not menstruate at all. They may also experience heavy bleeding, or periods that last for a prolonged period of time. Additionally, PCOS can cause other symptoms, such as acne, weight gain, and excess hair growth.

Both thyroid problems and PCOS can be diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and blood tests. Treatment for these conditions typically involves medications to regulate hormone levels and manage symptoms. In some cases, lifestyle changes, such as changes in diet and exercise, may also be recommended to help manage these conditions and improve menstrual cycle regularity.

16. Discontinuation or starting of OCP 

The oral contraceptive pill (OCP) contains synthetic hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. When starting or discontinuing the use of OCP, it can have an impact on the menstrual cycle.

Starting OCP:

When starting OCP, it is common for women to experience changes in their menstrual cycle. The hormones in the pill can help regulate the menstrual cycle, making it more predictable and lighter. Some women may experience breakthrough bleeding or spotting during the first few months of using the pill, but this typically resolves over time.

Discontinuing OCP:

When discontinuing OCP, it may take some time for the body to adjust to the absence of synthetic hormones. Women may experience irregular bleeding or a delay in the return of their period. It is not uncommon for it to take several months for the menstrual cycle to return to its normal pattern after stopping the pill.

You need to be aware that the effects of OCP on the menstrual cycle can vary depending on the individual and the specific type of pill being used. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting or stopping any form of birth control.

You can read more on types of family planning methods and their advantages and disadvantages from here.

17.Mental stress 

Mental stress can have a significant impact on the menstrual cycle. Stress can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones involved in the menstrual cycle, which can lead to irregular periods or even missed periods.

When a person is stressed, their body releases a hormone called cortisol, which can interfere with the production of other hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone. This can cause changes in the timing and duration of menstrual cycles, and can also lead to other menstrual-related symptoms, such as cramping, bloating, and mood swings.

In addition, chronic stress can also affect the functioning of the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, which play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle. This can lead to more significant disruptions in the menstrual cycle, such as amenorrhea (absence of periods).

It is important to note that everyone’s body responds differently to stress, and some individuals may be more susceptible to menstrual cycle changes than others. If you are experiencing significant disruptions to your menstrual cycle or other menstrual-related symptoms, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and explore treatment options.

18.Traveling to different time zones

Traveling to different time zones can also have an effect on the menstrual cycle. This is because the body’s circadian rhythm, which regulates various bodily functions, including the menstrual cycle, can be disrupted by changes in time zones.

The circadian rhythm is regulated by the body’s internal clock, which is influenced by exposure to light and dark. When a person travels across time zones, their exposure to light and dark can change, which can disrupt their circadian rhythm. This can, in turn, affect the production of hormones involved in the menstrual cycle, such as estrogen and progesterone.

Some women may experience changes in their menstrual cycle, such as delayed periods or irregular bleeding, after traveling across time zones. The extent of these changes can vary depending on the individual’s sensitivity to changes in their circadian rhythm and the duration of their travel.

To minimize the impact of traveling on the menstrual cycle, it is important to maintain a healthy sleep schedule, stay hydrated, and avoid excessive stress. It may also be helpful to gradually adjust to the new time zone by gradually shifting the sleep schedule a few days before the trip. If you experience significant disruptions to your menstrual cycle after traveling, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

19.Undergone surgery or serious illness 

Undergoing surgery or a serious illness can have a significant effect on the menstrual cycle. This is because surgery or illness can cause physical and emotional stress on the body, which can disrupt the balance of hormones involved in the menstrual cycle.

The body’s response to stress involves the release of hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can interfere with the production of other hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone. This can lead to changes in the timing and duration of menstrual cycles, as well as other menstrual-related symptoms, such as cramping and bloating.

In addition, surgery or illness can also disrupt the functioning of the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, which play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle. This can cause more significant disruptions, such as missed periods or even amenorrhea (absence of periods).

The extent of the impact on the menstrual cycle can vary depending on the type and severity of the surgery or illness, as well as the individual’s overall health and hormone levels. Recovery time can also play a role in how quickly the menstrual cycle returns to normal.

If you have undergone surgery or experienced a serious illness and are experiencing disruptions to your menstrual cycle, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and explore treatment options. In some cases, hormonal therapies or other interventions may be necessary to regulate the menstrual cycle.

20.Breast feeding 

Breastfeeding can have an effect on the menstrual cycle for many women, especially during the first few months after giving birth. Breastfeeding releases a hormone called prolactin, which stimulates milk production and can suppress ovulation.

For many women, this means that they may experience a delay in the return of their menstrual cycle, or they may not have a period at all while they are breastfeeding. This is known as lactational amenorrhea.

However, it’s important to note that breastfeeding is not a reliable form of contraception and it’s still possible to become pregnant while breastfeeding, even if you haven’t had a period yet.

As a woman’s breastfeeding frequency decreases or if she introduces formula or solid foods, the amount of prolactin released decreases, which can lead to the return of menstruation.

It’s also important to note that every woman’s experience with breastfeeding and their menstrual cycle can be different. Some women may experience irregular periods or changes in their menstrual flow, while others may not notice any difference at all.

21.Starting or discontinuing an exercise programme  

Starting or discontinuing an exercise program can have an effect on the menstrual cycle for some women, but the extent of the effect can vary.

Starting a new exercise program can sometimes lead to a temporary disruption in the menstrual cycle, especially if the exercise is intense or if there is a significant increase in physical activity. This disruption may be due to changes in hormone levels or changes in energy balance.

On the other hand, discontinuing an exercise program can also have an effect on the menstrual cycle. Regular exercise is known to have a positive effect on menstrual cycle regularity, so if exercise is abruptly stopped, it may lead to irregular periods or changes in menstrual flow.

It’s important to note that the effects of starting or discontinuing an exercise program on the menstrual cycle are not universal and can vary greatly from person to person. Some women may not notice any changes in their menstrual cycle with changes in their exercise routine, while others may experience more significant effects.

If you do experience changes in your menstrual cycle with changes in your exercise routine, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider to ensure that there are no underlying health issues and to develop a plan to manage any disruptions in menstrual cycle regularity.

22.Using medications like  antipsychotics or chemotherapy drugs 

The use of certain medications, such as antipsychotics or chemotherapy drugs, can have an impact on the menstrual cycle.

Antipsychotic medications, for example, can affect the levels of certain hormones in the body that regulate the menstrual cycle. This can lead to changes in the length and regularity of periods, as well as changes in the amount of bleeding. Some antipsychotic medications can also cause an increase in prolactin levels, which can further disrupt the menstrual cycle.

Chemotherapy drugs, on the other hand, can damage the cells that produce hormones in the ovaries, leading to a temporary or permanent disruption of the menstrual cycle. The extent of the disruption will depend on the specific drugs used and the dosage given.

It is important to note that the impact of medications on the menstrual cycle can vary greatly depending on the individual and the specific medication used. Women who are concerned about the effects of a particular medication on their menstrual cycle should speak with their healthcare provider.

23.Changes in diet plan 

Changes in diet can affect menstruation in several ways. Here are a few examples:

1. Nutritional deficiencies: If your diet is lacking in important nutrients like iron, calcium, or B vitamins, it can affect your menstrual cycle. These nutrients are necessary for the proper functioning of your reproductive system, and deficiencies can lead to irregular periods, heavy bleeding, or other menstrual problems.
2. Weight changes: Sudden changes in weight, whether gaining or losing, can affect your menstrual cycle. Being overweight or underweight can disrupt the balance of hormones in your body and lead to irregular periods or even missed periods.
3. Hormonal imbalances: Some foods can affect hormone levels in the body, which can impact the menstrual cycle. For example, consuming too much sugar can cause insulin resistance and lead to higher levels of estrogen, which can disrupt ovulation and cause irregular periods.
4. Inflammation: A diet that is high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can lead to chronic inflammation in the body. This can affect the menstrual cycle by disrupting the balance of hormones and leading to irregular periods.

Making changes to your diet, such as increasing your intake of nutrient-dense foods and reducing your intake of processed foods and sugar, can help improve your menstrual health. However, it is important to note that changes in diet alone may not be enough to address more serious menstrual problems. If you are experiencing significant menstrual issues, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider.

24.Eating disorder 

Undergoing an eating disorder can have a significant impact on a person’s diet plan. Eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder are characterized by abnormal eating habits. A lady can face different physical and emotional consequences due to this disorder. 

In the case of anorexia, individuals may severely restrict their calorie intake, avoid certain foods, and engage in excessive exercise. This can lead to malnutrition and other health complications.

Bulimia involves episodes of binge eating followed by purging, such as self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, or laxative use. This can lead to gastrointestinal problems and electrolyte imbalances.

Binge eating disorder involves consuming large amounts of food in a short period of time, often feeling out of control during these episodes. This can lead to weight gain and related health problems.

Careful monitoring and modification of diet is crucial in person who are undergoing treatment for an eating disorder. This may involve gradually increasing calorie intake, incorporating a variety of foods, and addressing any nutrient deficiencies. All these action support the rapid recovery of patient. Additionally, therapy and support from healthcare professionals may be necessary to address the underlying psychological factors contributing to the eating disorder.