Delayed Period After Birth Control & Negative Pregnancy Tests: What Could It Be?

Question
Hi! I went off of my birth control (basically just stopped taking it) in December.  I got my period in December, January and February (last period was actually over Valentine's Day), and have not gotten it since then.  I've taken two home pregnancy tests (first response), and both were negative.  I just took them about a week ago, so I figure they'd be positive if I was pregnant.  The last two times I had sex was over Valentine's Day, right after my period ended, and near the end of March.  Both times, my fiance' and I used a condom, and he did not ejaculate either time (long story).  I've been under a lot of stress lately (college), but what could be the reason I haven't had my period? Please help!  

Answer
Dear Kate,

Actually, the increased stress you are under could very well be the reason. There are many various causes for amenorrhea (absence of periods) - pregnancy being just one. Others can be:
-Hormonal imbalances, which cause fluctuating levels of the hormones needed to support menstruation
-Emotional or physical stress / Depression
-Rapid weight loss or gain
-Change in diet
-Low body weight
-Obesity
-Frequent or strenuous exercise
-Cysts or tumors in the ovaries
-Thyroid or Pituitary dysfunction
-Certain medications or drug use
-Menopause OR Premature ovarian failure (menopause before age 40)
-Occasionally stopping birth control pills

The general recommendation is that if you miss three consecutive periods and pregnancy is not the reason, you should see your doctor so that a cause can be determined. More than likely your doctor will do a quantitative blood pregnancy test (serum beta hCG), which is more conclusive than a urine test, to make sure that pregnancy is ruled out as an option.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda