But pregnancy is only one of many reasons your monthly flow might be behind schedule.

Sometimes things that seem totally unrelated to your menstrual cycle can mess it up.

Experts in This Article

board-certified OB/GYN and author ofShe-ology: The Definitive Guide to Womens Intimate Health.

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Period

Take, for example, getting sick.

So when your immune system is down, it could affect your reproductive system, too.

HereSherry A. Ross, MD, OB/GYN and author of She-ology: The Definitive Guide to Womens Intimate Health.

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board-certified OB/GYN and author ofShe-ology: The Definitive Guide to Women’s Intimate Health. Period

Can being sick delay your period?

Your period is often a barometer for your overall health and wellness, says Dr. Ross.

That means if youre feeling ill, you could see this reflected in your menstrual cycle.

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Heres why: when youre sick, your bodys equilibrium can get out of whack.

And this can affect your hormones.

Significant physical and mental stress can negatively affect your hormonal balance, says Dr. Ross.

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And as far ashow longthe flu can delay your period?

This will depend from person to person, but more than likely, only a few days.

Your period is often a barometer for your overall health and wellness.

pregnant person with long brown hair in a black tank top and pants and flowy tan overshirt looking at their baby clothes and awaiting birth, to show concept of superfetation pregnancy

board-certified OB/GYN and author ofShe-ology: The Definitive Guide to Women’s Intimate Health. Period

This may lead to changes in your period.

She also recommendstracking your periodwith either aperiod tracker appor just on a calendar.

By keeping tabs on your monthly cycles, youll know right away if something seems off.

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This information can also be useful to share with your doctor.

FAQ

How much delay in your period is normal?

While some people have pretty regular periods, others experience a little variation when Aunt Flo visits.

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This is totally normal.

Can being sick with COVID-19 delay your period?

It depends on the severity of the infection, says Dr. Ross.

Can any illnesses cause longer periods?

Sickness and menstrual irregularities can go the other way, too, causinglonger periods.

This pop in of bleeding can be a sign somethings going on in your body.

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