Most women of reproductive age menstruate unless they are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have underlying medical conditions. On average, a normal menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days (with a variation of roughly 7 days more or less), though it can range from 21 to 35 days in adults and 21 to 45 days in young teens1.
You might wonder whether there are ways that may help your period start sooner. Before we get into that, let’s first understand what a normal menstrual cycle looks like and how it differs from an irregular one. We’ll also explore common reasons why periods may be delayed.
Next, we’ll discuss safe ways to manage delayed periods, including lifestyle adjustments, natural approaches, and medical options, while highlighting what is safe and what should be avoided. Then we’ll check the risks and safety tips to keep in mind. Ready? We will also answer some common questions about periods in the end!
Friendly Reminder: The information shared here is for educational purposes only and the reader should consult a registered medical practitioner before implementing any changes to their health routine.
First, let’s get the basics right. Knowing what a healthy menstrual cycle is and what causes delays is important.
The menstrual cycle prepares your body for pregnancy and is influenced by certain reproductive hormones. These hormones thicken the inner lining of the uterus, preparing it for implantation of a fertilised egg. If an egg is not fertilised during this cycle, hormone levels drop. This starts a “period” as the lining sheds1.
There are several reasons why your period may be delayed, including the following2:
Lifestyle or food changes may be made should you wish to get your periods faster for just one cycle. However, if your “how to get periods immediately or faster” is a more recurring query, you need medical guidance as frequently delayed periods might need some medical intervention.
Dr Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology
Still searching for how to make your period start sooner over the internet? If your periods are late and you’re not pregnant or suffering from a medical condition, there are some approaches that may help your periods start sooner.
Many people use natural remedies and supplements to get their period started. It is important to remember that these traditional approaches lack strong scientific support and may work differently for different people.
Although it is said that vitamin C supplementation can possibly start periods, there is no scientific data to support this claim3. In fact, this is not a recommended method as high vitamin C doses may lead to kidney stones4.
Bromelain, an enzyme in pineapple, may affect menstrual hormones5.
Traditional wisdom believes that ginger can start menstruation by causing uterine contractions, even though there’s no solid proof of this6.
Parsley helps with balancing hormones in women and enhances oestrogen secretion7. Thus, it may help in getting the period sooner.
Some people believe turmeric can affect hormone levels and help induce periods, but there’s no scientific proof of this8.
These herbs may increase blood flow to the uterus or help shed the uterine lining, which may lead to periods9.
Caution: Periods cannot be reliably induced or hastened by foods, herbs, or home remedies. Traditional remedies, although believed to influence menstruation, are not proven to be effective and may carry health risks. These methods should be considered traditional beliefs, not evidence-based solutions. Therefore, always consult a gynaecologist before trying to manage or alter your menstrual cycle.
Ideally, one must not disturb body’s natural cycles. If your periods make your daily routine tasks difficult to carry out, consult a gynaecologist for evaluation.
Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Changing your lifestyle and being active might help start periods. However, remember, the effectiveness of these methods may vary from person to person.
High doses of vitamin C may induce menses by increasing the levels of oestrogen in the body. Increased levels of this hormone stimulate uterine contractions, which in turn, stimulates bleeding.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)
While lifestyle changes may help some individuals, hormonal treatments provided by a healthcare professional are the most reliable way to regulate periods. Always consult your gynaecologist before starting any treatment.
Important caution: Hormonal contraceptives are intended for cycle regulation, not for immediately inducing a period. Any changes to dosage, timing, or method should only be done under a doctor’s supervision.
Any attempt to alter normal body function carries risks, and trying to induce a period is no different.
Never attempt to induce your period if there is any possibility of pregnancy, as this can lead to serious complications. Always consult a healthcare provider/doctor before trying any method to manage or regulate your cycle.
While attempting to induce periods can be beneficial sometimes, it has its own set of risks. You might face hormonal imbalances, disturbed period patterns, or side effects from medicines.
It’s important not to try and start your period if there’s a chance you might be pregnant. Substances that induce menstruation can also cause miscarriages.
Repeated irregular cycles may signal underlying health conditions such as PCOS, thyroid disorders, or premature ovarian insufficiency. Therefore, such cases require proper evaluation and workup by a doctor before attempting any intervention.
Get professional help if your period is consistently irregular, you miss three periods in a row, your periods stop before the age of 45, or you bleed between periods or after sex, or postmenopausal bleeding is noted.
Also Read: How To Know If You’re Pregnant?
We’ve covered what affects menstrual cycles, safe ways to manage delays, and the role of both natural and medical approaches. Remember, your body is unique, and variations in periods are normal. However, if your cycles are irregular or you miss three or more periods, consult a gynaecologist to rule out conditions like PCOS, thyroid disorders, or premature ovarian insufficiency. Avoid unproven or unsafe remedies, and rely on a healthcare provider for guidance on period-related concerns.
You could feel bloated or moody or have headaches, back pain, tender breasts, and cravings before your period arrives.
The substances used to induce periods can lead to a miscarriage. If you suspect you may be pregnant, do not attempt to induce your period. Instead, speak to a healthcare provider.
It’s important to note that attempting to induce your period artificially can have health risks. Menstrual cycles vary, and it’s best to let them occur naturally. If you have concerns about menstrual cycle irregularities, consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.
While the chances are low, it is still possible to get pregnant during your period, especially if you have a shorter menstrual cycle. It’s crucial to use contraception consistently if you want to avoid pregnancy, as fertility varies among individuals.
Yes, a menstrual period may be delayed by 10 days due to various factors such as stress, hormonal changes, or underlying health conditions. If concerns persist, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalised guidance. Your period can be late due to stress.
No, a typical menstrual period does not occur during pregnancy. However, some pregnant individuals may experience light bleeding or spotting, often mistaken for a period. If there’s any uncertainty or concern, it’s essential to seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Yes, occasional period delays are normal and may be influenced by factors such as stress, hormonal fluctuations, or lifestyle changes. However, persistent or significant delays may warrant consultation with a healthcare professional to rule out underlying issues.
It is not possible to induce your period overnight. Menstrual cycles are natural processes influenced by hormonal changes. It’s crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep, for overall reproductive health. If you have concerns about your menstrual cycle, consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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1Period pains, also called dysmenorrhoea, are common in many women, especially in adolescents and young adult women. While most cases are mild and self-limiting, severe or sudden onset period pain may indicate an underlying gynaecological condition and should be evaluated by a gynaecologist.
Period pains affect the majority of women at some point in their lives1. The pain is typically felt as muscle cramps in the stomach that can spread up to the thighs and back2. This pain can feel like intense spasms at times or like a dull but constant ache.
The pain can also differ from one period to the other. Some periods can cause little or no pain, while others cause intense pain. Period pains are caused due to uterine contractions2.
Secondary dysmenorrhea occurs when you have painful periods as a result of a disorder or underlying inflammatory disease in your female reproductive organs, while primary dysmenorrhea refers to common menstrual cramps that reoccur and are not caused by other diseases2.
Primary dysmenorrhea (recurrent period pain) is more common than secondary dysmenorrhea and does not usually occur due to any other diseases2. Contraction of the uterine muscles and release of a chemical called prostaglandin from the body is what results in pain during periods1.
Secondary dysmenorrhea is a condition more common in older women aged 30 to 45 years. This can be the result of an underlying medical condition, some of which are listed below:
Most women experience some pain during their periods. The pain is felt as muscle spasms in the stomach, which can spread to the thighs and the back. For some women, period pains can be severe and are accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, dizziness, and headache2.
These home remedies are simple and can help you ease the menstruation (period) pain.
You can place a heating pad or a warm water bottle (wrapped in a towel) on your abdomen to relieve period pains3. Heat can help in the relaxation of abdominal muscles and reduce muscle tension. Heat can also improve blood circulation and reduce congestion and swelling. This helps in relieving pain caused by muscle spasms and nerve compression during periods4.
Exercising may seem difficult during painful periods, but it can help relieve pain. Exercise helps in pain relief by increasing the production of chemicals that block pain. You can try mild exercises such as include yoga or pilates (to improve physical strength), swimming, walking, or cycling to help reduce period pains5.
You can try taking a warm shower or bath. Heat is known to help reduce pain and soothe the muscles. The heat from a warm bath or shower can help relax and reduce period pains. The warmth from a bath or shower can also improve pelvic blood flow, which may reduce fluid retention, minimise swelling, and consequently ease pain. This simple method can be a soothing, natural way to manage period-related discomfort6.
Light, circular massages around your abdomen may help reduce period pains. It is a simple and effective self-help measure7.
Apart from these home remedies, you can also try making some lifestyle changes to help alleviate period pain and the associated symptoms. These include:
Before making any of these lifestyle changes, consult with a doctor as making significant lifestyle changes without proper consultation might harm your health.
If you encounter longer than usual and irregular and severely painful menstrual cycles, you should consult your gynaecologist as it may be a cause of underlying endometriosis, which is a commonly reported and clinically diagnosed condition in females around the middle ages.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology
Also Read: How to Increase Female Libido Safely and Effectively
For many women, some pain during their period can be expected. However, you should see your doctor if:
Systematic reviews and randomised clinical trials of herbal and dietary supplements have shown that thiamine, pyridoxine, magnesium, and fish oil may be effective in relieving dysmenorrhoea. Heat therapy has been a traditional home remedy for dysmenorrhoea.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)
Also Read: How To Know If You’re Pregnant?
Mild menstrual cramps are common, especially in teenagers and women in their 20s. However, if the pain is sudden, worsening, or not responding to over-the-counter pain relief or lifestyle changes, a gynaecologist’s evaluation is essential to rule out underlying causes like endometriosis or fibroids. While heat, exercise, and certain dietary changes can help manage pain, treatment may also involve medications, hormonal therapy, or surgical options depending on the diagnosis.
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies for Malaria
Period pains are common but manageable. Some home remedies that may be helpful include heating pads, taking warm showers, and exercising. You can also try relaxing and yoga techniques to help with the pain.
Yes, period pains are common. Some women may feel mild to moderate pain, while others have severe pain. Make sure to consult with a doctor in case you have severe pain.
Yes, warm showers might help in easing period pain. The heat from warm showers or baths can help to relax the muscles of the abdomen and reduce the pain of periods. Heat can provide many helpful benefits like increasing pelvic blood flow, reducing fluid retention, and swelling, which may reduce period pain.
Yes, period pain can worsen over time. If you feel your period pain worsening, you should contact your doctor for assistance.
Period pain, to some extent, is expected. However, if you have a fever, sudden worsening of pain, and pain even when you are not on your period, and if the pain medication and self-help techniques don’t provide any improvement, you should contact your doctor.
Period pains or primary dysmenorrhea may not be preventable, but its severity can be reduced through regular exercise, stress management, and, if needed, medical treatment. Secondary dysmenorrhea may improve once the underlying condition is treated.
Yes, you can use heating pads for period pain relief. Make sure you wrap the heating pad or warm water bottle in a towel before keeping it on your skin. The application of heat can reduce muscle tension and relax abdominal muscles. Avoid sleeping with heating pads on and never apply directly to bare skin.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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