Period stopped but not pregnant: what to know

The menstrual cycle depends on signals between the brain, ovaries, and uterus. Stress, intense exercise, eating changes, significant weight change, some medicines, and recent illness can interrupt those signals. Polycystic ovary syndrome may cause irregular or absent periods. Menopause is another explanation when periods become less frequent and other symptoms appear. Premature ovarian insufficiency can affect ovarian function earlier than expected, while Turner syndrome may be associated with absent or irregular periods.

Keep a record of the last period, previous cycle pattern, symptoms, medicines, exercise, and weight changes. If there is any possibility of pregnancy, repeat a home test or ask a clinician about testing, even when an earlier result was negative. A clinician may review your history, check for hormonal or physical causes, and decide whether blood tests or imaging are useful. Do not start hormone tablets or supplements without advice.

Arrange an appointment if periods remain absent, repeatedly become irregular, or you develop new facial hair, acne, nipple discharge, headaches, vision changes, hot flushes, or pelvic pain. Seek urgent help for severe pelvic pain, fainting, heavy bleeding after a missed period, or a positive pregnancy test with pain or bleeding.

Could my medicines, stress, exercise, or weight changes be affecting my cycle? Which tests would help identify the cause? What symptoms should prompt earlier review?