New Health Experts Q&A Women’s Health

Why is menstruation delayed for ten days?

Asked by:Felicity

Asked on:Apr 18, 2026 07:44 AM

Answers:1 Views:342
  • Botts Botts

    Apr 18, 2026

    Ten-day delay in menstruation may be caused by pregnancy, endocrine disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome, excessive mental stress, excessive diet and weight loss, etc. Interventions can be made through pregnancy tests, hormone therapy, lifestyle adjustments, etc.

    1. Pregnancy

    When women of childbearing age have a history of sexual intercourse, pregnancy should be ruled out first if menstruation is delayed. Pregnancy causes increased levels of human chorionic gonadotropin, which inhibits endometrial shedding. It is recommended to use early pregnancy test strips or go to the hospital for a blood HCG test. If pregnancy is confirmed, follow-up treatment options need to be selected based on individual circumstances.

    2. Endocrine disorders

    Hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis dysfunction may cause menstrual cycle abnormalities. Common triggers include staying up late, jet lag, environmental changes, etc. Symptoms include prolonged or shortened menstrual cycles, which may be accompanied by breast tenderness. It can be adjusted by regular work and rest, taking progesterone capsules and other drugs.

    3. Polycystic ovary syndrome

    The disease is characterized by hyperandrogenism and ovulatory dysfunction. Typical symptoms include oligomenorrhea, acne, and hirsutism. Ultrasound examination shows polycystic changes in the ovaries. Long-term use of drugs such as ethinyl estradiol cyproterone tablets is required to regulate the menstrual cycle, and metformin tablets are used to improve insulin resistance.

    4. Excessive mental pressure

    Emotional stress such as long-term anxiety and depression can inhibit the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, leading to delayed follicle development. It may be accompanied by symptoms such as insomnia and headache. It is recommended to relieve stress through psychological counseling and mindfulness training, and if necessary, short-term use of dydrogesterone tablets to promote menstruation.

    5. Excessive dieting to lose weight

    Losing weight too quickly in the short term can lead to lower leptin levels and affect hypothalamic function. It is common in women with a BMI lower than 18.5, and may be accompanied by symptoms of malnutrition such as hair loss and chills. It is necessary to gradually restore a balanced diet, consume no less than 1,500 calories per day, and supplement ferritin and vitamin E soft capsules.

    It is recommended to record basal body temperature and bleeding for at least 3 menstrual cycles to avoid sudden changes in eating habits. Carry out 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise such as brisk walking and swimming every week, but the amount of exercise should be reduced when the body fat rate is less than 17%. If it is delayed for more than 3 months or is accompanied by severe abdominal pain or abnormal bleeding, timely medical treatment is required to rule out diseases such as intrauterine adhesions and premature ovarian insufficiency. Foods containing phytoestrogens such as soy products and nuts can be consumed in moderation on a daily basis, but they cannot replace drug treatment.

Related Q&A

More