Why is My Period Late If I''m Not Pregnant?

Late periods have numerous causes beyond pregnancy, with stress being the most common factor. Hormonal fluctuations from conditions like PCOS affect up to 10% of reproductive-age women, while thyroid disorders impact about 5% of the population. Weight changes, intense exercise, certain medications, and medical conditions like diabetes can all disrupt your menstrual cycle. Most women experience cycle variations of 21-35 days, and occasional delays are normal. However, if your period is more than a week late or you experience other symptoms like severe pain or unusual bleeding, consult a healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions.