Managing Stress and Period Changes After Career Transition & Past Health Concerns

Question
Dear Doctor,

I just started a new career and do not have health insurance, so I'm trying to avoid a doctor's visit.

Last December 2004, my exhusband had 5 brain tumors.  Due to the stress, my period was delayed (I took Trazadone then).I just turned 48 years old and have been under severe stress leaving behind a marriage without possibilities, facing a new dissapointing job(I have taken Trazadone again).I also take Levothyroxine 50 mgc.My periods continued to be heavy even after the successful removal of the fibrates in 2000.My periods have always been regular (every 28 days). For the past 8 months, I have been sexually active with my new boyfriend.My last period was on Oct. 21, 2005.My home pregnancy test results were negative.Please give me a professional idea what might be the reason I didn't get my period.  Thanks.

Answer
If you have a normal 28 day period, and your last period started on October 21, you were due for your next period on November 17. One explanation is that you are premenopausal. After the age of 45, you start to have irregular periods and occasionally miss a month. Then you miss several months. When you miss a full 12 months, you have reached menopause. If you have any concerns, consult your gynecologist.