What does it mean if menstruation occurs every 40 days?

Menstruation occurring every 40 days may result from non-disease factors, but it could also be related to medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or premature ovarian failure. It is recommended to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. The specific analysis is as follows:

I. Non-disease factors

Long-term mental stress, anxiety, depression, staying up late, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption; extreme dieting leading to nutritional deficiencies; and taking oral contraceptives that disrupt hormonal balance can all affect the menstrual cycle and lead to irregular periods. It is recommended to improve unhealthy habits, ensure adequate nutrition, and discontinue any suspected medications—this often allows menstruation to return to normal.

II. Disease factors

1. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Due to abnormal estrogen secretion, multiple small follicles develop in the ovaries but fail to mature and ovulate, causing delayed menstruation. It is recommended to regulate diet, increase physical activity, and, under a doctor's guidance, take medications such as ethinyl estradiol cyproterone acetate tablets, drospirenone-ethinyl estradiol tablets, or compound norethisterone tablets to manage menstrual irregularities.

2. Premature ovarian failure

Low levels of estrogen in the body prevent the endometrium from thickening properly, resulting in delayed menstruation or amenorrhea. This condition cannot be cured, but under medical supervision, medications such as estradiol valerate tablets, dydrogesterone capsules, or progesterone capsules may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms caused by estrogen deficiency.

In addition, other conditions such as intrauterine adhesions following surgery, hyperprolactinemia, or endometrial tuberculosis may also cause these symptoms. Prompt medical consultation is advised to determine the exact cause and initiate targeted treatment accordingly.