Does a UTI Delay your Period – Know the Causes of Irregular Periods

An irregular period is something that worries every woman. Several factors affect the menstrual cycle. Factors like stress, hormonal imbalance, and PCOS are the major causes of such delays. However, many women with Urinary Tract Infections that is UTI think that such infections can also lead to the delay in periods. Well, that is not true. UTI does not affect the menstrual cycle directly and is not something that can lead to irregular periods. The after-effects of UTI can, however, be the cause of delayed periods. 

Does a UTI Miss your Period?

To understand the causes of infection that lead to such delay lets first know what UTI is and how is it caused.

Urinary Tract Infection

The bacterial infection caused in the urinary system of the women is termed as the Urinary tract infection. According to the reports, 25% of women approximately suffer from this issue monthly. The infection is caused due to the bacteria entering the urinary system. Urethra and urinary tract are majorly affected in this type of infection. Sexually active women are more prone to such bacterial infections. As the bacteria, such E.Coli can enter the tract and cause the infection. Apart from this, not maintaining genital hygiene can also cause such infections.

UTIs are not directly linked with the periods, as the infection is in the tract and not in the uterus or fallopian tubes. However, stress caused due to UTIs can lead to a delay in the periods. Stress is the most common trigger for irregular or delayed periods. Being constantly stressful throughout the month can also lead to an imbalance in the hormones. This hormonal imbalance leads to a delay in the periods. So although the infection doesn’t cause the delay directly, it can elevate the levels of stress. 

To be on the safer side, it is vital to take precautions and preventive measures to avoid UTIs. The easy and common ways to prevent such infections are:

• Make sure to maintain your personal hygiene. Wipe the vaginal area properly to ensure that there is no bacterial growth.
• Change the birth contraceptives that you use. Condoms and diaphragms that are often used for contraception are often sprayed with certain chemicals that can lead to bacterial infection in the urinary tract.
• Try and clean the area after intercourse to avoid the chances of such UTIs.
• Avoid sex during periods as it can cause irritation and infection of the urinary system.

These are some basic and convenient ways that can help in keeping the infections at bay. There are some symptoms of UTIs that can be helpful for you to self detect the problem. You should be aware of the signs to take quick action.

Symptoms of UTI

• Experiencing burning sensation while peeing
• Pelvic
• Frequent need to urinate
• Urine with a strong smell
• Urinating in smaller amounts
• Unusual discharge
• Discomfort in the lower abdomen

These are some of the symptoms that are commonly observed in women having UTI. The intensity of the symptoms is different depending upon the area that is infected. 

The delay in periods or irregular menstrual cycle can be because of the following reasons:

• Obesity: Women who are overweight or obese are prone to PCOS, which can lead to a delayed period.
• Improper Diet: The food we eat also affects our menstrual cycle. Not eating nutritious food can also lead to irregularity.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Not doing any physical activity and eating junk leads to an increase in weight which is a trigger for a delayed period.
• Stress: Taking too much stress decreases the levels of hormones which are responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle.

So contrary to what some women believe UTI is not the cause of the delayed period. However, treating a UTI is crucial because it can increase stress levels. If you feel something unusual while you are peeing or an abdomen pain consult a gynecologist immediately.