If you've recently started having sex and want to know how sex affects your period. The next article will cover the factors that affect the delay of your period and whether sex can delay your period and more.
Does sex delay your period?
Can sex really affect your period? The answer is no, sex does not affect hormonal changes. Sex releases oxytocin and prolactin, endorphins and other hormones that grow.
What are the factors that affect menstruation?
When you first start menstruating during puberty, you may have periods once in two months, or twice a month, etc. It is normal for your periods to show irregularity at first, and after a few years, they will gradually become regular. It becomes easier to detect irregular periods.
Composition of the menstrual cycle
Menstruation usually lasts 24-38 days. If it is outside this time, it is considered as a delayed period, and if it is delayed for 6 weeks it is considered as a missed period. Failure to have a period can also affect the menstrual cycle apart from pregnancy, for example:
- Hormonal changes
- Weight changes
- Stress and anxiety in life
- Side effects of medications
Understanding the menstrual cycle
The menstrual cycle usually consists of three phases, the follicular phase, the ovulation phase and the luteal phase.
Delayed menstruation and pregnancy
If you are sexually active and your period is delayed, it could be due to pregnancy. Pregnancy not only delays menstruation but also has other effects on the body.
- Bloating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Easy fatigue
- Delayed menstruation
- Emotional ups and downs
- Breast swelling and pain
Can sex affect your period pain?
Orgasm releases hormones such as dopamine, endorphins, etc. which are a natural painkiller. It will ease menstrual pain and relieve stress and fatigue. That's why some people, during their periods, choose to relieve their pain through sex, but don't push yourself if you can't handle it or think it's not for you.
Other factors that may cause delayed periods
Delayed periods, if you have ruled out pregnancy, then here are other factors that may cause your period to be delayed.
Stress and emotional factors
Stress and emotional shifts can lead to the release of cortisol, such as stress in life, work, family, or low mood and depression due to stress. These can affect hormones such as estrogen imbalance.
Weight changes
If you lose weight in a short period of time, or if you are undernourished, etc., this can also lead to an effect on estrogen and lead to irregular periods. Regular exercise helps in regulating the hormones, but too much of it can affect menstruation.
Changes in lifestyle
Factors such as changes in lifestyle, jet lag, working at night, etc. can also affect hormones and lead to delayed or early menstruation.
Illness
If there is a physical or mental illness, then this can potentially lead to affecting the sexual routine. Polycystic ovary syndrome, for example, can throw a woman's hormones out of whack, which can lead to irregular periods. Chronic illnesses over a long period of time can also affect the regularity of menstruation.
Oral contraceptive pills
Oral contraceptives can alter hormone levels in the body and may even cause ovulation to stop. As well as affecting the amount of menstruation, menstrual disorders, and even leading to menopause.
Perimenopause
When you're in perimenopause, your periods can be irregular, your menstrual cycle can become longer, and your menstrual flow can become heavier or lighter. It goes from once a month, to once every two months, and eventually ends with menstruation. This state usually lasts for about 12 months.
Final Thoughts
There are many factors that can affect menstruation, such as weight, stress anxiety, illness, oral contraceptives, pregnancy, and more. Sex does not change delaying your period, or changing your menstrual pattern. In case of symptoms such as irregular periods, prolonged heavy bleeding, and menopause, you need to seek medical help promptly.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
How many days is better to delay my period?
It is not better to delay your period for a few days, as long as it is within 24 to 38 days it is considered normal, if it is outside of this time, it is either early or delayed. If you do not have your period after 6 weeks, it is considered a missed period.
I'm not pregnant but my period is delayed, why?
Apart from pregnancy, there are many factors that affect menstruation such as weight changes, perimenopause, hormonal imbalance etc. These are some of the most common causes of menstrual disorders.
What can I do to get my period back
If you want to get your periods back, you can focus on the following points to find out the cause of your menstrual disorders and make targeted adjustments, such as maintaining a healthy diet and nutritional intake, exercising, and if you are underweight or overweight, you need to focus on eating more or less, and exercising in moderation. Manage stress and anxiety and maintain a good mood and condition.