Patient's question:
Previously, my menstrual cycle was always very regular. This time, it's delayed by eight days and still hasn't arrived. I haven't had any sexual activity in this past month.Can a delay of this length be considered menstrual irregularity?
Doctor's answer:
Hello! Generally, the menstrual cycle is 28-30 days, and it is still within the normal range if it is advanced or delayed by one week. If menstruation is delayed for more than 7 days, in addition to pregnancy, factors such as mental stress, emotional fluctuations, and changes in the environment; local inflammation, tumors, or developmental abnormalities of the reproductive organs; malnutrition, intracranial disorders, other endocrine dysfunctions, medications, and nutritional status can all cause functional abnormalities in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, leading to menstrual irregularities. It is recommended to visit a hospital for tests of the six sex hormones and an ultrasound to identify the cause and then receive targeted treatment.