Irregular Menstrual Cycles in Young Girls: What to Know

Menstrual cycle issues?

Hello, my youngest daughter started her menstrual period in late November last year and has had it 9 times since then.
We understand that the cycle is usually irregular in the first year, but we have been keeping track of it.
The cycle lengths have been 29 days, 20 days, 24 days, 22 days, 28 days, 27 days, 26 days, and 26 days.
The last period started on June 5, and we anticipated the next one to be around June 30.
However, she experienced some lower abdominal discomfort on June 28 and 29, and since today, July 5, she has not had any further discomfort.
Could you please advise what this situation might indicate? Thank you.

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/05

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Our youngest daughter started her menstrual period in late November last year and has had it 9 times since then.
We understand that the cycle is usually irregular during the first year, but we have been keeping track of it.
The cycle lengths have been 29 days, 20 days, 24 days, 22 days, 28 days, 27 days, 26 days, and 26 days.
The last period started on June 5, and we anticipated the next one to be around June 30.
However, the child experienced some lower abdominal discomfort on June 28 and 29, and since today is July 5, she has not felt any further discomfort.
What could this situation indicate? Answer: A visit to the hospital for an ultrasound examination is necessary.

Reply Date: 2019/07/05

More Info

Understanding irregular menstrual cycles in young girls is a common concern for many parents, especially when their daughters are just starting to experience menstruation. It’s important to recognize that irregular cycles are quite normal in the first few years after menarche (the first menstrual period).
In your daughter’s case, it seems she has had a variety of cycle lengths, ranging from 20 to 29 days, which is not unusual for someone who has recently started menstruating. The average menstrual cycle is typically around 28 days, but it can vary significantly, especially in adolescents. The body is still adjusting to hormonal changes, and it may take some time for cycles to become more regular.

The symptoms your daughter is experiencing, such as lower abdominal discomfort, could be related to several factors. It’s possible that she is experiencing premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which can cause symptoms like bloating, cramps, and mood swings in the days leading up to menstruation. The discomfort she felt on June 28 and 29 could indicate that her period was approaching, as many girls experience cramps or discomfort just before their menstrual flow begins.

However, since her period did not start as expected on June 30, it’s also important to consider other possibilities. Stress, changes in diet or exercise, and even illness can affect the menstrual cycle. If she has been under stress, whether from school, social situations, or other factors, this could contribute to irregularities. Additionally, significant changes in physical activity, such as increased exercise or changes in weight, can also impact menstrual cycles.

If your daughter continues to experience irregular cycles or if the abdominal pain becomes severe or persistent, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough evaluation to rule out any underlying conditions, such as hormonal imbalances or other gynecological issues.
In terms of management, keeping a menstrual diary can be very helpful. This diary should include the dates of her periods, the length of each cycle, and any symptoms she experiences. This information can be invaluable for healthcare providers in understanding her menstrual health.

In summary, while irregular menstrual cycles are common in young girls, it’s important to monitor the situation. If discomfort persists or if there are significant changes in her cycle, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed early on, promoting better health and well-being as she continues to grow.

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