First, rule out pregnancy
If there's any chance you could be pregnant and your period is late, the simplest first step is a home pregnancy test — they're accurate from around the time your period is due. This is worth doing before assuming it's something else.
If the test is negative and your period still hasn't come after a week or so, there are plenty of other explanations.
Common reasons periods run late
Stress is one of the biggest culprits — high stress can delay or skip ovulation, pushing your period back. Significant changes in weight, intense exercise, illness, travel and disrupted sleep can all do the same. Starting, stopping or changing hormonal contraception affects your cycle too.
Underlying conditions are also common causes: PCOS frequently causes irregular or late periods, thyroid problems can disrupt cycles, and in your 40s, perimenopause makes periods increasingly unpredictable.
When to see a GP
See a GP if your periods are regularly late or irregular, if you've missed periods for three months or more (and aren't pregnant), or if late periods come with other symptoms like excess hair, acne, weight changes or fatigue that might point to PCOS or thyroid issues.
A GP can arrange the right blood tests and, if needed, an ultrasound to find the cause, then help you manage it. A telehealth consult is a convenient way to get your cycle looked into.
Related condition
Periods & menstrual health →References & sources
- 1.Periods — Jean Hailes for Women's Health
- 2.Heavy periods — healthdirect
- 3.Menstruation — healthdirect
- 4.Heavy periods — Better Health Channel
This content is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice. Please consult a GP for your personal situation.
Ready to speak with a GP?
Book a private telehealth consult with an AHPRA-registered Australian GP.