Why is my menstrual period delayed by a month, and what should I do?
Sep 11, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, the main causes of a one-month menstrual delay include excessive mental stress, extreme dieting, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, and intrauterine adhesions. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, it is important to maintain a regular作息 schedule, avoid excessive fatigue, and maintain a balanced diet.
Generally, the main causes of a one-month menstrual delay include excessive mental stress, extreme dieting, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, and intrauterine adhesions. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely consultation and treatment at a reputable hospital. The detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Excessive Mental Stress
Long-term anxiety or tension can interfere with the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis function, affecting the secretion of estrogen and progesterone, which prevents the normal shedding of the endometrium and causes menstrual delay. In daily life, stress can be relieved through exercises such as running or yoga. Ensure 7-8 hours of sleep daily and avoid staying up late to help stabilize the endocrine system and restore a normal menstrual cycle.
2. Extreme Dieting
Long-term intentional reduction of food intake may lead to nutritional deficiencies, affecting the supply of raw materials for hormone synthesis, thereby decreasing estrogen secretion and impeding endometrial proliferation, resulting in menstrual delay. Adjust the diet immediately by increasing intake of high-quality proteins such as eggs, milk, lean meat, and fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure sufficient daily caloric intake. If necessary, nutritional supplements such as multivitamin tablets or zinc gluconate oral solution may be taken under a doctor's guidance.
3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Elevated levels of androgens in the body can inhibit follicular development and maturation, leading to abnormal or absent ovulation. The endometrium remains under continuous stimulation by estrogen alone and cannot shed normally, causing menstrual delay. Under a doctor's supervision, medications such as dydrogesterone tablets or progesterone capsules can be used to regulate the menstrual cycle, combined with metformin tablets to improve insulin resistance. At the same time, weight control and reduced intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods are recommended.
4. Hypothyroidism
Insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones can slow down the body's metabolic rate, affect ovarian function, lead to hormonal imbalances, and cause delayed endometrial proliferation, resulting in menstrual delay. Under medical guidance, levothyroxine sodium tablets may be taken to supplement thyroid hormones, with regular follow-up tests to adjust the dosage accordingly. Additionally, consuming iodine-rich foods like kelp and laver can help improve thyroid function.
5. Intrauterine Adhesions
Frequent induced abortions or uterine cavity infections can damage the endometrium, leading to partial or complete adhesion of the uterine cavity and a reduction in endometrial surface area, affecting normal proliferation and shedding, which may result in menstrual delay. Mild adhesions may be treated with estradiol valerate tablets under medical supervision to promote endometrial repair, while severe adhesions require hysteroscopic adhesion lysis surgery. Postoperative medication should be taken as prescribed to prevent recurrence of adhesions.
In daily life, it is important to maintain a regular routine and avoid excessive fatigue; maintain a balanced diet without blind dieting or overeating; keep a positive mindset and avoid prolonged mental stress; and undergo regular gynecological examinations to detect and treat gynecological conditions promptly, thus maintaining reproductive health.
