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Girls usually start their pubertal development between age 8 and 13. Girls who have not started to develop their breasts by age 13, or have not started their menstrual period by age 15 should see their health care provider for an evaluation. Menstrual problems are common among teens. However, too few menstrual periods could be caused by a mild hormone imbalance called Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is especially likely to be causing irregular menstrual periods if acne, excess hair growth, or weight problems exist. Irregular or lack of menstrual periods could also be caused by problems such as being underweight, excessive exercise, and stress. Girls with more than 2 months between menstrual periods should see their health care provider.
Painful menstrual periods are also a common problem for teens. If heating pads and over-the-counter medications don't relieve the pain, a health care provider may prescribe birth control pills. If bad cramps continue while taking birth control pills, a problem such as endometriosis could exist.
Girls with heavy and/or long menstrual periods may be anemic, meaning they have too few red blood cells or too little hemoglobin (oxygen-carrying protein in the red blood cells). People who are anemic need to eat more foods that contain iron and take an iron supplement. The Reproductive Endocrine Practice within the Adolescent/ Young Adult Medical Practice and the Pediatric/Adolescent Gynecology Program provide counseling and treatment services related to menstrual/reproductive disorders.
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