How stress affects period?

Stress can absolutely impact the menstrual cycle. The brain regulates the chemicals within the body that also regulate the release of period-inducing hormones. The brain is sensitive to external things like sleep and stress or even relationship issues. The brain releases chemicals, which stimulate the pituitary gland that then causes the ovaries to release the hormones estrogen and progesterone that stimulate the period.

Cortisol is the infamous “stress hormone.” It can interfere in the process between the brain and ovary interactions that regulate the menstrual cycle. When we experience stress, the body’s stress response cycle begins, and cortisol is released. Cortisol can cause missed periods, lighter periods, or even cause the period to stop or cease.

Each person responds to stress differently and tolerates different levels of stress. The type of stress we’re experiencing can also play a role. An event we perceive as especially stressful may have more of an impact on us, and an event that we perceive as only slightly stressful may have a lesser impact. If you’re sensitive to stress, you may be more likely to have periods that are irregular or impacted by stress.

If you’re having a late period, talk with your doctor. Pregnancy should be ruled out as a potential cause, and at-home pregnancy tests aren’t as reliable as laboratory testing. The hormones involved in regulating periods also play a role in other areas of health. They can also promote heart health, bone health and support more stable moods.

Your doctor will rule out pregnancy and make sure that other medical issues aren’t an underlying cause. Once these are ruled out, your doctor may use hormone-based medications to help regulate your periods and the hormones involved in them. Lifestyle changes may also be recommended. These may include:

• Getting adequate sleep and improving sleep habits and hygiene
• Practicing meditation, mindfulness, or yoga
• Getting exercise
• Engaging in enjoyable activities
• Working with a therapist to learn stress management and dig at deeper underlying issues involved in your stress response

Working with a therapist can improve your communication, help you learn healthy coping skills, and identify thinking patterns that may be unhelpful. Therapy also provides you with a safe place to vent and explore feelings with objective feedback. If you’re experiencing delayed periods, talk with your doctor.