Few things can cause more stress than a missed period. The first thought many people have is pregnancy but that’s not the only possible explanation. Hormonal shifts, stress, sudden weight changes, or even certain medications can all interfere with your cycle.
But what about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)? Could an infection be behind a missed or late period?
What Can Affect Your Menstrual Cycle
A typical menstrual cycle runs about 21 to 35 days, with most lasting 28 days. Hormones from the brain (FSH, LH) and ovaries (estrogen, progesterone) work together to regulate ovulation and menstruation.
When something disrupts this delicate balance, your period may arrive late—or skip a month entirely. Common causes include:
- Pregnancy (always rule this out first).
- Stress and changes in sleep or routine.
- Hormonal conditions like PCOS or thyroid issues.
- Significant weight loss or gain.
- Intense exercise or chronic illness.
So where do STDs fit in?
Can STDs Actually Cause Missed Periods?
Not all STDs affect the menstrual cycle. Many infections stay “silent,” meaning you won’t notice obvious symptoms. But when left untreated, some can cause complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), that may disrupt your periods.
In other words, STDs don’t usually cause a missed period directly, but they can create ripple effects in your reproductive system that lead to irregular or absent cycles.
Specific STDs and Their Possible Effects
Chlamydia & Gonorrhea
These are two of the most common STDs worldwide. According to WHO estimates from 2020, chlamydia affects approximately 4% of women worldwide—about 1 in 25 women aged 15 to 49. If untreated, both infections can travel upward into the uterus and fallopian tubes, leading to PID. PID may cause irregular bleeding, spotting, and sometimes missed or very painful periods.
HIV
HIV doesn’t directly interfere with the ovaries, but it can disrupt the immune system and hormone regulation. Studies show women with HIV may experience irregular cycles, missed periods, or even early menopause due to immune and endocrine changes.
Syphilis
Menstrual changes are rare with syphilis. However, in later stages, the infection can impact overall health and stress the body enough to affect your cycle.
Herpes & HPV
These viruses usually don’t impact menstruation. However, outbreaks can be painful and stressful, and stress itself is a well-known factor that can delay a period.
Other Symptoms to Watch Alongside a Missed Period
If you miss your period and also notice symptoms like these, it’s worth paying attention:
- Unusual vaginal discharge (yellow, green, or foul-smelling).
- Pelvic or lower abdominal pain.
- Pain or burning when urinating.
- Bleeding between periods or after sex.
A missed period paired with any of these could point to an infection that needs prompt care.
When to See a Doctor
One missed period isn’t always a red flag, but if you miss two or more in a row, or if you also have symptoms of an STD, it’s time to get checked. Routine screening is the only way to know for sure.
If you come in with a missed period, your doctor will usually start with a pregnancy test. From there, you may be offered urine tests, swabs or blood work. Hormone tests can check your thyroid, prolactin, or reproductive hormones, while an ultrasound can rule out PCOS, cysts, or uterine changes.
This step-by-step approach helps narrow down whether the missed period is related to an infection, hormones, or something else entirely.
Get Tested and Treated for STDs at Dr Prevents
Can an STD cause you to miss your period? Yes—sometimes. But it’s usually not the direct cause. More often, missed periods are tied to pregnancy, hormones, or lifestyle changes. Still, ignoring an infection can lead to serious complications that do affect your cycle and overall fertility.
If you’ve missed a period and are worried about STDs or other health issues, don’t wait and wonder. At our clinic, we offer confidential STD testing, menstrual health evaluations, and compassionate care to help you find answers quickly.