Can a Woman Miss Her Period and Not Be Pregnant?

A woman can experience missed periods without being pregnant. There are many factors which contribute to an absent menstrual cycle, most having to do with a woman's everyday activity and overall health.

Stress

• Stress is a common cause of a missed period. Hormones are a major factor in the production of a menstrual cycle, and stress can cause those hormones imbalance, resulting in a missed period.

Weight

• Being overweight or underweight may contribute to missed periods. Anorexia, bulimia and overeating are types of weight issues. Since the weight is not being maintained at a healthy level, the body fails to initiate its biological needs.

Medication

• The effects of birth control can be just as strong as any other medication, causing hormonal changes. Therefore, using contraception typically may cause lighter, inconsistent and absent periods.

Pelvic Disorders

• The ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus are all susceptible to tumors and various infections, such as sexually transmitted diseases, which can disrupt or completely stop the menstrual cycle.

Menopause

• Usually, women in their mid-40s to 60s experience the onset of menopause. Symptoms may include irregular or missed periods signifying this life-altering change.