IRREGULAR PERIODS IN TEENS *Professor Ellis Downes
What is a regular period?
Menstrual cycle is regulated by hormones and regular menstrual period occurs every month without any missing periods, depending upon your cycle length. A variation of one day between menstrual cycles is normal and menstrual cycle is repeated regularly normally in every 28 days. .
Onset of periods in teens can be anywhere between the age of 9 to 18 with enlargement of breasts, pubic hair and widening of hips. The period cycle sets in about 2 months. However, if the cycle varies for more than a day frequently in a teen that has recently started menstruating, it could be cause for concern and must be analysed by a gynecologist. Ovarian bleeding, rupture of lining of uterus, infection in vagina or urinary tract and other complexities can occur. if not checked, bleeding may not stop causing severe problem. Child bearing capability may be permanently affected.
A gynaecologist can usually determine the cause and whether it is normal by analyzing menstrual pattern since it started. A timely intervention can prevent complexities.
What is an irregular or abnormal menstrual pattern in women?
According to American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG), menstrual cycles longer than 35 days or shorter than 21 days are abnormal. Menstrual bleeding normally lasts between two and seven days, with the average being five days and periods last for longer than seven days are generally considered as abnormal.
