How Many Days Late Is Considered a Late Period?

Family Medicine, Primary Care Roots Community Health Center, Hippo Education, Kameda Medical Center

Supervised by Kenji Taylor, MD

A period is typically considered late if it hasn't started about 7 days after when you normally expect it.

Explanation

Most women have cycles that last between 21 and 35 days. That means if you normally have a 28-day cycle and your period hasn’t started by day 35, it would be defined as late. Small changes of a few days in your cycle from month to month can be normal and is not necessarily a sign of a more serious problem. Many things can change your cycle including stress, exercise habits, or changes in your weight and overall health. If your period is typically regular and is delayed by a full week or more, it could be a good idea to keep a diary of your cycle and talk with a doctor.

(References)

deProsse CA, Keettel WC. The missed menstrual period. Postgrad Med. 1977 Jan;61(1):251-2, 254, 256. doi: 10.1080/00325481.1977.11714526. PMID: 189296.
Thiyagarajan DK, Basit H, Jeanmonod R. Physiology, Menstrual Cycle. 2024 Sep 27. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan–. PMID: 29763196.
Nawaz G, Rogol AD, Jenkins SM. Amenorrhea. [Updated 2024 Feb 25]. In: StatPearls [Internet].

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