Should I Be Worried If My Period Is 3 Days Late?

It is quite common for a menstrual cycle to vary by a few days. Many women see small changes in their cycle from one month to another because of things like mild stress, small shifts in weight, or changes in how much you sleep or exercise. Over the course of a typical cycle—even one that normally runs from 21 to 35 days—a delay of 3 days is usually within a normal range. In many cases, this slight delay may be your body’s natural way of adjusting to life’s ups and downs. However, if your period is regularly late or you notice other symptoms like pain or very heavy bleeding when it comes, it may be a good idea to talk with a healthcare provider. They can check to make sure everything is working alright. In general, a one-time delay of a few days does not mean there is a serious problem.