Patient's question:
Menstruation is delayed by 6 days, and it's not pregnancy. Is it better to regulate with traditional Chinese medicine or to take progesterone?Doctor's answer:
Generally, if menstruation is delayed by one week, it is considered a symptom of menstrual irregularity. The reasons for menstrual delay can be categorized into the following types:1. Psychological factors leading to menstrual delay: Excessive stress, abnormal emotions such as grief, frustration, anger, or heartbreak often cause menstrual delay. This condition may also lead to breast tenderness, restlessness, and a sense of melancholy. In most cases, no treatment is needed, but if menstruation remains delayed for an extended period, Chinese herbal medicine can be used for syndrome differentiation and regulation.
2. Extreme weight loss leading to menstrual delay: Many women take weight-loss medications or practice excessive dieting to control their weight, which can result in menstrual delay. If the delay is brief, the menstrual cycle may return to normal on its own. However, for prolonged delays, medication may be required to restore the regular menstrual cycle.
3. Contraceptive pills leading to menstrual delay: Suddenly stopping the use of contraceptive pills, especially long-acting oral contraceptives, can cause menstrual disorders.
4. Surgery leading to menstrual delay: Cervical adhesions caused by uterine cavity surgery or induced abortion can lead to retained menstrual blood, resulting in delayed menstruation.
5. Pregnancy leading to menstrual delay: If pregnancy occurs, menstruation will cease. On the expected day of menstruation, there may be no bleeding, accompanied by symptoms such as increased urination, changes in appetite, vomiting, and nausea.
6. Endocrine disorders leading to menstrual delay: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or early ovarian failure can also cause menstrual delay. Timely examination is recommended, and treatment should be initiated as soon as abnormalities are detected.
7. Chronic diseases leading to menstrual delay: Common chronic conditions such as hepatitis, tuberculosis, tumors, or hypothyroidism often cause menstrual delay due to nutritional deficiencies.
It is recommended to undergo medical examinations for the six major sex hormones and ultrasound to identify the cause and receive targeted treatment.