Managing Irregular Menstruation in Young Girls: When to Seek Hormonal Treatment

Irregular menstruation?

Regarding your question from yesterday: The child has had her first menstrual period, and after the fourth occurrence, it has not stopped.
The doctor prescribed Progyluton for 21 days, and a follow-up appointment is scheduled for one month later, with the need to continue for 3-6 months to regulate the menstrual cycle.
The response from Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng from Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, dated 2015/09/22, states that irregular menstruation is common in the first few years after menarche.
As age increases, many individuals will experience self-resolution.
Therefore, a conservative treatment approach is preferred.
It is advised to ensure adequate sleep, engage in regular exercise, and avoid excessive stress.

In response to your question about what is meant by "conservative treatment," it refers to ensuring adequate sleep, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive stress.
If these measures are being followed and menstruation still does not stop, it is important to consider whether hormonal therapy is necessary or if there are other treatment options available.
Thank you!

Tracy, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/22

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The continuation of pharmacological treatment is still necessary, especially in cases of long-term or significant bleeding.
The purpose of conservative treatment is to avoid the use of excessive or prolonged medication.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/09/22

More Info

Managing irregular menstruation in young girls can be a complex issue, especially when considering the potential use of hormonal treatments like Progyluton. It is important to understand the context of menstrual irregularities in adolescents and the implications of hormonal therapy.

Firstly, it is common for young girls to experience irregular menstrual cycles during the first few years after menarche (the first menstrual period). This is primarily due to the body still adjusting to the hormonal changes that come with puberty. Many girls may experience cycles that are longer, shorter, heavier, or lighter than what is considered normal. In many cases, these irregularities resolve on their own as the body matures. Therefore, a conservative approach, which includes ensuring adequate sleep, regular physical activity, and stress management, is often recommended initially.

In the case presented, the young girl has experienced multiple menstrual cycles with varying flow and duration, leading to concerns about prolonged bleeding. The physician's decision to prescribe Progyluton, a combined oral contraceptive that contains estrogen and progestin, is aimed at regulating the menstrual cycle and addressing the irregularities. The recommendation to take the medication for 3-6 months is not uncommon in such cases, as it allows time for the body to stabilize its hormonal levels and for the menstrual cycle to normalize.

However, it is crucial to weigh the benefits against the potential risks of hormonal treatment. Hormonal therapies can have side effects, including mood changes, weight gain, headaches, and potential impacts on growth and development. In young girls, there is also a concern about the long-term effects on bone density and overall growth, particularly if treatment is prolonged. Therefore, it is essential to monitor the patient closely during treatment and to have regular follow-ups with the healthcare provider.

If the girl has already made lifestyle adjustments and continues to experience irregular menstruation despite these efforts, hormonal treatment may be warranted. However, it is also important to consider other potential underlying issues that could be contributing to the irregularities, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or other endocrine issues. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider, including blood tests and possibly imaging studies, may be necessary to rule out these conditions.

In conclusion, while hormonal treatment like Progyluton can be effective in managing irregular menstruation in young girls, it should be approached with caution. The decision to initiate treatment should be based on a comprehensive assessment of the individual’s health, the severity of the symptoms, and the potential risks and benefits. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the girl's response to treatment and to make any necessary adjustments. If the irregularities persist or worsen, further evaluation and alternative treatment options may need to be explored.

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