My Period is Late! Reasons other than Pregnancy for a Delayed Period

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS is yet another cause for delayed or absent periods. PCOS is more common than not and affects as many as one in fifteen women. It is one of the leading causes for infertility and can also cause great irregularities with one's menstrual cycle. Other symptoms associated with the hormonal imbalance of PCOS can include acne, weight gain, depression, thinning hair, facial and body hair, high blood pressure, or even type two diabetes.

• There are a host of other reasons why your period might be delayed other than those listed above or pregnancy. These causes can include the following: Stress, illness, being overweight, anorexia, some medications, jet-lag from travel, excessive exercise, breast feeding, fatigue, and inconsistent use of birth control pills.

The bottom line is that you know your body best.  If you are normally regular with your menstrual cycle and your period is late by a week or more then this is the time to look for a cause.  The first reason to rule out is pregnancy.  Get a home pregnancy test or visit your gynecologist.  If pregnancy is not the reason for a delay in getting your period then you can ask your doctor to begin investigating other medical causes.  It is difficult not to worry or panic when your cycle is out of whack.  To ease your worries it is a good idea to seek guidance from your doctor or health care provider.