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Can pinworms cause a delayed period and mild abdominal pain?

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Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am 18 years old and have pinworms, causing itching in my buttocks. My period is four days late, and I have not had any intercourse. I am also experiencing mild abdominal pain. Can pinworms delay my period? Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Georges Hany Kozah

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Pinworms do not directly cause delayed periods, but the stress, sleep disturbances, and inflammation they trigger may affect your menstrual cycle.

Possible reasons for your late period:

  1. Stress and sleep disruptions: Nighttime itching from pinworms can lead to poor sleep and increased stress, which may impact hormone levels.

  2. Inflammation and gut health: A pinworm infection can cause mild intestinal inflammation, potentially influencing hormonal balance.

Other common causes:

  1. Hormonal fluctuations.

  2. Diet or weight changes.

  3. Mild infections or illnesses.

  4. Intense physical activity.

What you can do:

  1. Treat the pinworms: Take an anti-parasitic medication like Mebendazole or Albendazole (available over the counter or by prescription).

  2. Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently, clean undernails, and change underwear and bedding daily.

  3. Track your period: If it is delayed more than 10 days, consider consulting a doctor to check for hormonal imbalances.

  4. Stay hydrated and manage stress: Relaxation techniques may help regulate your cycle.

Your period should arrive soon, but if the delay extends beyond a week, kindly consult a doctor.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At May 21, 2025
Reviewed At May 21, 2025

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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