Irregular Menstruation in Young Girls: Causes and Solutions

Q: Irregular Menstruation in Young Girls: Causes and Solutions

Hello, the questioner： Before the age of 18, females may experience irregular menstrual cycles due to immature ovarian function. <br>It is recommended that if the cycles are too irregular or if bleeding lasts too long, you may temporarily use menstrual regulation medications to p

Menstrual bleeding does not stop?

Dear Doctor: My daughter is 11 years old and started her menstrual period in June this year.
The first three months were normal, but during the fourth cycle, her period came 17 days apart and did not stop.
She experienced continuous bleeding for 20 days before seeking medical attention (the flow was very light).
After taking hemostatic medication for three days without effect, she took hormonal treatment for another three days, which finally stopped the bleeding.
However, seven days later, her period returned.
The doctor prescribed a 21-day cycle of the menstrual regulation medication Progyluton, advising her to take it for three months.
I understand that menstrual cycles can be irregular initially, but this is not just irregularity; it is continuous bleeding.
I would like to ask: 1.
Is it possible to wait and see if it resolves on its own? 2.
Is it common practice for young girls to take menstrual regulation medication? 3.
Are there other methods (considering her sleep, routine, and stress levels are fine) that could help improve this situation? Thank you!

cc, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/22

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the questioner: Before the age of 18, females may experience irregular menstrual cycles due to immature ovarian function.
It is recommended that if the cycles are too irregular or if bleeding lasts too long, you may temporarily use menstrual regulation medications to prevent other complications.
In your case, it is advisable to start with the mentioned medications.
As for the duration of use, you can discuss this with your physician for adjustments.
If bleeding persists or if your lifestyle remains irregular, it is best to continue the medication for a period of time before reassessing.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2015/09/22

More Info

Irregular menstruation in young girls, especially those who have just started their periods, can be a concerning issue for both the child and the parents. It’s important to understand that the onset of menstruation, known as menarche, can be accompanied by various irregularities as the body adjusts to hormonal changes. In your daughter’s case, experiencing prolonged bleeding and irregular cycles can be particularly distressing.

Causes of Irregular Menstruation
1. Hormonal Imbalance: During the first few years after menarche, the body is still adjusting to the hormonal changes that regulate the menstrual cycle. This can lead to irregular cycles, including prolonged bleeding or missed periods.

2. Anovulation: In young girls, it is common for the ovaries to not release an egg (anovulation) during the menstrual cycle, which can result in irregular bleeding patterns.

3. Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Factors such as stress, changes in weight, excessive exercise, or poor nutrition can also affect menstrual regularity. Although you mentioned that her sleep and stress levels are okay, it’s worth considering any other lifestyle changes that may have occurred.

4. Underlying Medical Conditions: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or bleeding disorders can also lead to irregular menstruation. It’s essential to rule these out with a healthcare provider.

Treatment Options
1. Monitoring: In many cases, especially for young girls who have just started menstruating, doctors may recommend a wait-and-see approach. The menstrual cycle often becomes more regular over time. However, if the bleeding is excessive or prolonged, as in your daughter’s case, medical intervention is necessary.

2. Hormonal Treatment: The use of hormonal medications, such as the progestin-containing drug you mentioned (Progyluton), is a common approach to regulate the menstrual cycle. This can help stabilize the hormonal fluctuations and reduce the incidence of prolonged bleeding. It is not unusual for doctors to prescribe hormonal treatment for young girls experiencing irregular cycles, especially if they are symptomatic.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Encouraging a balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep hygiene can help improve overall health and potentially regulate menstrual cycles. While you mentioned that her lifestyle factors are okay, it’s always beneficial to ensure she maintains a healthy routine.

4. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are crucial. If the irregularities persist or worsen, further evaluation may be needed to rule out any underlying conditions.

Questions Addressed
1. Can it be left alone?: While some irregularities can resolve on their own, given your daughter’s prolonged bleeding, it is advisable not to leave it untreated. Continuous monitoring and medical advice are essential.

2. Is hormonal treatment common?: Yes, hormonal treatment is a standard approach for managing irregular menstruation in young girls, especially when there are significant symptoms like prolonged bleeding.

3. Other Improvement Methods: Besides hormonal treatment, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and ensuring adequate nutrition can contribute positively to menstrual health. If there are any concerns about her emotional well-being or stress levels, it may be helpful to address those as well.

In conclusion, while it is common for young girls to experience irregular menstruation, persistent issues such as prolonged bleeding should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. The use of hormonal treatments is a standard practice in managing such conditions, and regular follow-up is essential to ensure your daughter’s health and well-being.

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