What are the reasons for a 46-year-old woman's delayed menstruation?

Nov 14, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, a delayed menstrual period in a 46-year-old woman may be related to excessive stress, perimenopausal changes, polycystic ovary syndrome, intrauterine adhesions, hypothyroidism, or other causes. It is recommended that the patient promptly visit a hospital for evaluation and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a physician. During treatment, maintaining a positive mood and avoiding emotional fluctuations is important, along with adhering to a regular sleep schedule.

Under normal circumstances, delayed menstruation in a 46-year-old woman may be related to excessive stress, perimenopausal changes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), intrauterine adhesions, hypothyroidism, or other causes. It is recommended that patients promptly visit a hospital for evaluation and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Excessive stress: Long-term psychological stress can lead to endocrine disorders, causing menstrual irregularities and delayed periods, possibly accompanied by mood instability, anxiety, and insomnia. It is advisable to adjust one's mindset, relax, and avoid excessive fatigue and mental strain.

2. Perimenopausal changes: Women around the age of 46 may have entered the perimenopausal stage, during which ovarian function gradually declines, leading to irregular menstrual cycles and eventual menopause. Symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings may also occur. Hormone testing (six-item panel) is recommended to assess ovarian function, along with maintaining a positive mental state.

3. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS may cause infrequent menstruation or amenorrhea, often accompanied by obesity, hirsutism, acne, and infertility. Patients should follow medical advice and use medications such as dydrogesterone tablets, progesterone capsules, and letrozole tablets as prescribed.

4. Intrauterine adhesions: Procedures such as dilation and curettage or induced abortion may lead to intrauterine adhesions. These may present with cyclical abdominal pain similar to the menstrual cycle. Mild cases can be treated with medications such as amoxicillin granules, enteric-coated aspirin tablets, and compound estradiol tablets; more severe cases may require surgical separation of adhesions.

5. Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism can disrupt endocrine function, leading to menstrual disorders and missed periods, along with symptoms such as cold intolerance, fatigue, and even amenorrhea. Under medical supervision, patients may take medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, or hydrocortisone injection to help restore normal function.

During treatment, it is important to maintain a cheerful mood and avoid emotional fluctuations. Additionally, regular rest should be observed and excessive physical strain avoided.