Surgery can delay your period, and the length of the delay can vary depending on various factors. Postoperative stress and anesthesia can both contribute to this delay. In most instances, the delay is normal and goes away as your body recovers from the surgical stress. A delay to your menstrual cycle could happen before surgery if your period happened to align with your surgery date, or during recovery from the procedure. If you notice any changes in your menstrual cycle, particularly if it happens soon after surgery, it is important to talk with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance as to whether or not the change is normal, or whether further investigation is needed. In the meantime, it's a good idea to keep track of your menstrual cycles following surgery to monitor for any potential issues.