Why Would a Period Come 5 Days Early?

If a woman has regular periods, every 28 days like clockwork, it can be worrisome if her period is a few days early one month. Women's hormones can be thrown out of whack with any number of things, resulting in her period being a few days early or late. According to the NIH, in addition to the usual stress, weight changes or perimenopause, there are other reasons for an early period.

• If the woman has engaged in unprotected sex, then pregnancy may be a concern. Even though it may seem like her period, spotting can occur that might be mistaken for menstruation.
• A diet rich in carbs may cause a hormonal shift, resulting in an early period. If a woman's diet has changed recently, this may be a factor.
• Birth control pills have an effect on a woman's hormones, according to Mayo Clinic. While the body is getting used to the pills, the menstrual cycle may become irregular. This is also true with some other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Drinking too much alcohol can damage the liver. This may cause interference with how the liver metabolizes the hormones in women that regulate periods.