A missed period, even when one is not pregnant, can be problematic sometimes. The situation is not alien to many and is observed in 20 to 25% of females. It can happen due to multiple health conditions such as unhealthy body weight, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), or even stress! Hence, a healthy lifestyle is the recommended recovery option for such females by gynaecologists, as it is not a disease but a reflection of imbalanced hormones in the body. Mental peace also holds a significant chunk in staying at bay from irregular periods.

A healthy period cycle lasts 28 days and can be lengthened to 40 days. Suppose the period cycle is delayed even after 40 days. In that case, it is a matter of worry and an alarming sign to consult a gynaecologist immediately to tap the root cause and cease other branching health obstacles.

Below are some possible reasons for the missed period:

Stress. Stress has become a fad these days in this hectic lifestyle. Whether it's a mature adult or a school-going kid, stress has surrounded a maximum number of people, resulting in diverse health problems. The issue also contributes to the delay of periods. Stress disturbs the functioning of hormones and is also responsible for hampering the hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle. Stress also leads to sudden gain or drop in body weight, another striking cause of delayed periods. Hence, staying calm and cheerful and a lifestyle that promotes the same are essential for a healthy menstrual cycle. If the condition is not manageable with the help of changes on a personal level, then consulting for professional medical help is an advisable option.
Low Body Weight: Low body weight is also one of the causes of irregular menstrual cycles. People suffering from anorexia nervosa or bulimia are at a higher risk of experiencing the health condition. Such issues are observed due to excessive fear of gaining weight, leading to damaging weight loss practices. Low body fat due to low weight ceases ovulation, causing irregular cycles. Hence, maintaining a healthy body weight is vital for healthy hormones and their functioning. A healthy lifestyle and healthy food choices can help eliminate improper eating habits. If the condition is unmanageable on a personal level, professional medical help is the advisable option to cure the 'missed period, not pregnant' situation.
Obesity: Just as underweight is the cause of irregular periods, on the same scale, obesity is also one of the major alarming signs of disturbed cycles. Obesity leads to excessive production of oestrogen, the hormone responsible for reproduction in the female body. High oestrogen disturbs the menstrual cycle or can also be the cause of the permanent ceasing of the cycle. Hence, a healthy body weight is essential to avoid the symptoms of irregular cycles and maintain a healthy lifestyle. To prevent obesity, one must strictly ditch unhealthy food habits and exercise to maintain a healthy body weight.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): It is a health condition leading to excessive production of male hormone androgen. The condition is rectified by the formation of cysts on the ovaries, causing hormonal imbalance. Irregular ovulation or stopping of the cycles can be observed due to PCOS. Insulin resistance is also observed under such circumstances. Hence, females suffering from PCOS are advised to cut down on sugar until the cycles are regularised and follow a clean and healthy diet. Curing PCOS involves relieving symptoms. The curing stage involves:
Introducing healthy foods.
Exercising.
A no-sugar regime.
Other essential healthy tips.

A gynaecologist may recommend birth control pills or other required medications to treat PCOS.

Thyroid Issues: Thyroid issues are also observed in 2 out of 5 females. They occur when the thyroid gland is overactive or underactive. The thyroid regulates the body's metabolism, so hormone levels are affected. Hence, it is also one of the causes of irregular periods. Doctors can suggest medication to regularise the imbalanced hormones and heal the disturbed menstrual cycle.

Conclusion

Missed period is a health issue observed in many females. An unhealthy lifestyle contributes to this health problem. The issue is also a path for many other health problems, causing external and mental issues. Medications help to deal with the current hormonal problems, but a healthy lifestyle and healthy food choices help to curb the issue in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What are the possible causes of missed periods?
A1. PCOS, thyroid issues, obesity, and low body weight are some of the possible causes of missed periods.

Q2. What other health issues are observed due to irregular periods?
A2. Mental agitation, weight gain, facial hair, hair thinning, and depression are some of the health issues observed due to irregular periods.

Q3. Is an unhealthy lifestyle the cause of hormonal imbalance?
A3. An unhealthy lifestyle is the primary cause of hormonal imbalance as such a form of lifestyle neglects healthy habits and focuses on health-damaging practices.

Q4. Which practices should be avoided to maintain a healthy hormonal balance?
A4. Smoking, drinking alcohol, unhealthy food habits, irregular sleeping cycles, and a stressed environment are some of the practices that should be avoided to maintain a healthy hormonal balance.

Q5. How can hormonal balance be maintained at personal levels?
A5. Binging on healthy food options, exercising regularly, avoiding lethargy, and staying calm and cheerful are some of the best ways to maintain a healthy hormonal balance.

Reference Links:

https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/irregular-menstrual-cycles-causes-symptoms-and-treatment-options
https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/why-is-my-period-late