TeenHealthFX - Answers - Period Is Ten Days Late

Females: Your Period / Question
Published: August 23, 2006

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I am sorry to bother you with a question, because I am very well aware that there are other teens out there that have much more important questions, but this is really an important question to me. I have been dating this boy for quite some time. We have not had sex, and he has never had his penis near my vaginal area. But, we have touched eachother in the pubic areas. Last month, we touched eachother. I touched him skin to skin, but he did not touch me down there. I then washed my hands (with soap and water). But, this month, I have not had my period. My question is, why haven't I had it? I am about 10 days late...exactly. I have been under a slightly higher stress level than usual. My boyfriend keeps telling me that that is why I haven't started. But, I wanted to ask an expert. I am really starting to get worried. Can you give me some much needed advice? Thank you so much for all that you do! This website has been very, very helpful! Thanks

Signed: Period Is Ten Days Late

Dear Period Is Ten Days Late,

There are many reasons why an adolescent female may experience irregularities with her period. For one thing, period irregularities are quite common during the teen years as it can take up to a few years for a regular cycle to develop. Some other reasons teens may experience irregularities with their menstrual periods include:

Physical illness
Stress
Over-exercising
Poor eating habits/inadequate nutrition
Significant weight change
Travel

Since FX is unable to give you a precise reason as to why your period is late, and since you are feeling so concerned about it, FX recommends that you meet with your physician to discuss the matter further. In addition, while meeting with your doctor, you can also discuss with him/her safer sex practices to protect yourself and your boyfriend from unwanted pregnancies or the transmission of STDs in the future.

In terms of whether or not the sexual activities between you and your boyfriend could have lead to your being pregnant, keep in mind that pregnancy occurs when a man’s pre-ejaculatory fluid (or “pre-cum”) or ejaculatory fluid comes into contact with a woman’s vagina. The sperm from “pre-cum” or ejaculatory fluid can either be deposited within the vaginal canal during penetration or right outside of the vagina – either way there is a chance that sperm can make it’s way to the egg in order to fertilize it.

If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-6475 for an appointment or contact your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood.

Signed: TeenHealthFX