Having sex can only delay your period if it results in pregnancy.
The menstrual cycle is a natural part of life for people with a uterus.
But the hormones associated with sex do not delay your period.
LumiNola / Getty Images
LumiNola / Getty Images
Debunking the Myth: Can Sex Delay Your Period?
Sex does not directly delay your period.
However, pregnancy from sex puts your period on hold until after childbirth.
Sexual activity raisesoxytocinandendorphinhormone levels, leading to bonding and pleasure.
But sex does not impact the reproductive hormones that direct the menstrual cycle.
Your period becomes more predictable after a couple of years, making it easier to note irregularities.
Signs and symptoms of pregnancy include:
In addition, people who are breastfeeding may not have a period.
It can be mistaken for a period because it occurs around the same time as a period would start.
However, it is lighter and shorter than a period.
Try using the first urine of the day when the HCG levels are the highest.
Periods can be irregular due to factors like stress, extreme exercise, and weight changes.
The stress experienced may indirectly lead to period delay.
Schedule changes can also confuse hormone levels, causing your period to come early or a little late.
Chronic medical conditions have longer-term impacts on hormone levels, affecting menstrual regularity.
It typically occurs in a person’s late 40s or early 50s.
Thyroid Disease
Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can cause heavier, longer, or irregular periods.
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can cause lighter or shorter periods.
They can cause spotting between periods orlighter, shorter, or absent periods.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
Consult a healthcare provider for the following.
Tracking your menstrual cycle aids in identifying irregularities and provides valuable information for healthcare providers.
Seek advice from a provider for missed periods, irregular cycles, severe pain, or abnormal bleeding.
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