Irregular Menstruation in Teen Girls: When to Seek Help

Irregular menstruation and bone health?

Hello Doctor: I have a 15-year-old daughter who has had her first menstruation for two and a half years.
During this time, her menstrual cycle has been very irregular.
Initially, she experienced continuous bleeding, although the flow was not heavy.
We consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and she took herbal medicine for a year, but there was not much improvement, so we stopped.
Now, her period comes every three weeks and lasts about 10 days, with a generally light flow.
After each menstruation, I prepare a traditional herbal soup for her, but just a few days after drinking it, her period returns.
This has been ongoing.
I also give her chicken essence, about one bottle every three days.
She is approximately 163 cm tall and weighs about 47 kg.
I would like to ask the doctor if her menstrual cycle is considered normal.
Is it necessary to see a doctor again? Additionally, does she need to take "bone-strengthening" supplements? What would happen if she doesn't take them? I am very concerned and would like to seek your advice.
Thank you!

Lin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/09/20

Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Miss Lin,
I am glad to receive your letter! Your daughter, who is 15 years old, is experiencing irregular menstruation.
The pattern of menstruation can sometimes be related to genetics, so it would be helpful to look into the menstrual history of female relatives in your family.
Did any of them experience similar issues when they were younger? If so, there may be a pattern to follow.
If no one has had such experiences, I recommend seeking assistance from a gynecologist to check for any abnormalities.
If the gynecologist finds no issues, then you may consider consulting a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for further treatment.
Regarding growth, the goal is to ensure that her height does not remain too short.
Your daughter is currently 163 cm tall, so there is no need for her to take any growth-promoting formulas.
This is my response to you, and I hope it meets your satisfaction.
Wishing you good health and may all your wishes come true!
Sincerely,
Yen Su-Mei
Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Nantou Hospital

Reply Date: 2010/09/20

More Info

Irregular menstruation in teenage girls can be a concerning issue for both the young woman experiencing it and her parents. In your daughter's case, it seems she has been dealing with irregular menstrual cycles since she started menstruating, which is not uncommon for adolescents. However, the specifics of her situation warrant further attention.

Firstly, it is important to understand that during the first few years after menarche (the first menstrual period), it is typical for cycles to be irregular. This is due to the body still adjusting to the hormonal changes that come with puberty. However, the pattern you describe—having periods every three weeks, lasting for about ten days, and the initial phase of having frequent but light periods—could indicate an underlying issue that might need medical evaluation.

Given that your daughter has already tried traditional Chinese medicine without significant improvement, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional who specializes in adolescent gynecology or a pediatrician. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, blood tests to check hormone levels, and possibly an ultrasound to rule out any anatomical issues or conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders.

The fact that her menstrual flow is generally light is a positive sign, but the irregularity and duration of her periods could suggest an imbalance in her hormonal regulation. It is also worth noting that significant weight loss, stress, or excessive exercise can contribute to menstrual irregularities, so it would be beneficial to discuss her lifestyle and any other symptoms she may be experiencing.

As for the question of whether she needs to take "growth-promoting" supplements, it is essential to approach this with caution. While some parents may feel inclined to give their children supplements to enhance growth or regulate menstruation, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new regimen. The effectiveness and safety of these products can vary, and they may not be necessary if your daughter is already receiving adequate nutrition.

If your daughter does not receive treatment for her irregular menstruation, she may continue to experience discomfort or complications, such as anemia from prolonged bleeding or issues related to fertility in the future. Therefore, seeking medical advice is not only prudent but necessary to ensure her overall health and well-being.

In summary, while irregular menstruation can be common in teenage girls, your daughter's specific symptoms and the duration of her irregular cycles suggest that it would be wise to seek professional medical advice. A healthcare provider can help determine if there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed and guide you on the best course of action for her health.

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