What causes late periods?

Posted on Tue, 22 Apr 2014

Question: My period was late. I started spotting on day 34 of my cycle which is usually 24 days long. It was only when I wipe and lasted for 4 days and then stopped for 2 and it was always mucus bright red. On day 41 I spotted early in the day and by evening it turned into heavy bleeding and has been going on for 4 days. My breasts feel larger. I have taken 3 negative pregnancy tests . What is going on. My periods are not heavy and are regular and last 4 to 5 days. This bleeding is not heavy per say but just not spotting.

Answered by Dr. S Patra (11 minutes later)

Brief Answer: DETAILS ARE GIVEN BELOW. Detailed Answer: Hello, Thanks for writing to us. In this circumstance, I suggest you to undergo one blood test for beta-hCG (more reliable than home pregnancy test) and Trans Vaginal Ultrasound scan to rule out possible MISCARRIAGE or other UTERINE pathology (if any). Early home pregnancy test may give negative result. You should consult with your GYNECOLOGIST following above mentioned tests for next line management. Until then, you will maintain genital hygiene properly. Hope, it helps for your information. Kindly, close the discussion if you don't have any other query. Wish your good health and take care yourself. Regards, Dr Soumen For future query, you can directly approach me through http://doctor.healthcaremagic.com/Funnel?page=askDoctorDirectly&docId=63326

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. S Patra (3 minutes later)

I also have been trying to get pregnant and had a vaginal ultrasound several months ago to make sure i was ovulating and i am. They said i looked like a 21 year old. Even though i am bleeding i could still be pregnant?

Answered by Dr. S Patra (16 minutes later)

Brief Answer: DETAILS ARE GIVEN BELOW. Detailed Answer: Hello, Thanks for follow up query. Late period with red mucous discharge to heavy bleeding may be associated with early miscarriage (mistaken as normal period). In that case, bleeding will be there until process of miscarriage is completed. However, other uterine pathology like polyp or fibroid, hormonal imbalance, stress, pelvic infection etc can cause this type of bleeding. Therefore, I suggest to undergo above mentioned tests for confirmation. It will be more helpful to decide next level of management. Hope, it helps for you. Kindly, close the discussion. All the best and good luck. Regards, Dr Soumen

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar