Месячные у девочки 12 лет: Первые месячные у девочек в 12 лет: особенности и рекомендации

Нерегулярные месячные у подростка: причины, как лечить

Путь во взрослую жизнь для девочек начинается с первой менструации. Менархе появляется в 9 – 14 лет и зачастую носит нерегулярный характер.

В норме месячные должны иметь цикл 21 – 35 дней и продолжительность 3 – 6 дней. Если каждый раз кровь на трусиках появляется неожиданно – то через 3 недели, то через 6, это говорит о нестабильности менструального цикла.

Современные мамы должны знать, что такое нерегулярные месячные у подростка и своевременно принимать меры, если критические дни перерастают в патологию.

Особенности менструального цикла у подростков

Первые несколько лет после менархе (первого кровотечения из половых путей) менструальный цикл не у всех девочек-подростков бывает регулярным. Его нестабильность связана с гормональной перестройкой организма и изменением работы эндокринной системы. Поэтому задержки и частые месячные в возрасте 12, 14, 15 лет гинекологи считают нормой.

В течение 2 лет менструальный цикл должен установиться обязательно. Если же после менархе прошло больше 3 лет, а критические дни продолжают приходить в разное время, мама должна показать дочь детскому гинекологу для своевременного выявления заболеваний.

Поводом для срочного обращения к специалисту может стать любое отклонение:

• Отсутствие месячных на протяжении трех и более месяцев.
• Кровь выделяется каждые 2 недели на протяжении 2 – 3 месяцев.
• В течение нескольких месяцев подряд цикл имеет продолжительность больше 45 дней.
• Длительность каждой менструации превышает 7 дней.
• Интенсивное кровотечение вынуждает менять средство гигиены каждые 2 часа и чаще.
• Резкие колебания веса.
• Кожа становится жирной и появляются угри.
• Наблюдается гирсутизм – избыточный рост волос на лице и теле.
• Симптомы беременности, если девушка в 14 – 16 лет уже ведет половую жизнь (иногда месячные продолжают идти даже после зачатия).

Данные медицинской статистики показывают: с нестабильным менструальным циклом сталкиваются более 50 % девочек пубертатного возраста. Задержка месячных и их полное отсутствие у подростка в гинекологии определяется термином аменорея. Если длительность цикла превышает 35 дней, врачи ставят диагноз «олигоменорея».

Безопасные причины нерегулярных месячных у девочек

Рассмотрим, какие в 14 лет причины нерегулярного цикла месячных могут быть у взрослеющих девочек. Сразу скажем о воздействии внешних факторов. На работу половой системы может повлиять как неблагоприятная экологическая обстановка в месте проживания, так и нездоровая атмосфера в семье. Асоциальное поведение родителей и недостаточное внимание угнетает психику ребенка и отражается на его развитии.

Другие причины нестабильных месячных в пубертатном периоде:

1. Стрессы – частые неприятности и переживания негативно отражаются на состоянии организма юной девушки. Психоэмоциональные перегрузки повышают вероятность нерегулярного прихода месячных.
2. Наследственная предрасположенность – если мать имеет гинекологические проблемы, скорее всего, генетически они передадутся и дочери.
3. Физические нагрузки – усиленные занятия спортом, неправильный распорядок дня, дефицит часов сна создают непомерные нагрузки на хрупкий организм. Работая в усиленном режиме, он не успевает полноценно справляться со всеми функциями.
4. Нерациональное питание – изобилие фаст-фудов и прочей неполезной еды, как и дефицит витаминов и микроэлементов, вредны в подростковом возрасте. Чтобы месячные стабилизировались как можно скорее, девушка должна придерживаться правильного рациона питания, следить за весом и избегать излишней худобы или ожирения.

Причиной нерегулярных месячных в 13 лет у девочек и взрослых женщин также может стать перемена климата. Смена места жительства, путешествие за границу и отдых на море в своей стране вынуждают организм акклиматизироваться. Из-за этого случаются сбои цикла.

Первые менструации у девочек приходят после оволосения лобковой и подмышечной зоны и начала роста груди. Врачи говорят, что организм становится готовым к кровотечениям в тот момент, когда объём жировой ткани составляет 17 %. Но для регулярного цикла организму необходимо 22 % жировой ткани. Наблюдения показали, что у полных девочек менструации начинаются раньше, чем у худеньких, и устанавливаются быстрее.

Видео:

Нерегулярные месячные у подростков как признак заболевания

Если у девочки подростка нерегулярные месячные не связаны с физиологическими факторами, ей необходимо пройти обследование на предмет развития серьезного заболевания. В первую очередь врач должен обратить внимание на состояние половых путей и яичников. Свищи, травмы мочеполовых органов, онкологические изменения, рабочий дисбаланс между гипофизом и яичниками отрицательно влияют на менструальный цикл.

Сделать критические дни нестабильными могут хламидиоз и вирус папилломы человека – инфекционные заболевания. Для них характерны ювенильные кровотечения. Это обильные кровотечения более 7 дней, изнуряющие организм и приводящие к развитию анемии. Сильные кровотечения нередко открываются после задержки месячных. Новые менструации могут не наблюдаться в течение 2 – 6 месяцев.

Черепно-мозговые травмы также нарушают менструальный цикл у девочек-подростков. Выработка женских гормонов возложена на гипофиз. После аварии или сильного удара с повреждением черепной коробки гипофиз травмируется и начинает работать неправильно. В результате месячные постоянно задерживаются.

Какие еще заболевания нарушают менструальный цикл у девочек:

• Недостаточность яичников.
• Синдром поликистозных яичников.
• Недоразвитие матки или яичников.
• Повышение уровня пролактина в крови.
• Нарушение свертываемости крови.
• Патологии щитовидной железы.

У девочек, как и у взрослых женщин, причинами нестабильных кровотечений могут быть эндометриоз и эндометрит. Обе патологии нарушают синтез гормонов и влекут нерегулярные месячные.

Диагностика и лечение

Девочки с нарушенным менструальным циклом в обязательном порядке проходят обследование:

• Осмотр на гинекологическом кресле.
• Измерение индекса массы тела.
• Ультразвуковое исследование брюшной полости.
• Анализы для уточнения гормонального статуса.

Лечить нерегулярный цикл месячных у подростков врачи должны с учетом причины нарушения. Девочка-спортсменка или ответственный ребенок, который старательно делает уроки и готовится к экзаменам, не досыпает и постоянно волнуется, должен изменить режим дня и отводить время для полноценного отдыха.

Если девочка соблюдает диету, подражая кумирам, и доводит себя до истощения, ей понадобится помощь детского психолога, диетолога, нутрициолога.

Если причиной нерегулярного цикла стал сахарный диабет, гиперплазия надпочечников или гипотиреоз, как лечить основную проблему и сопутствующие заболевания, врач решит на основании клинической картины – после этого «неправильные» месячные отрегулируются.

Медикаментозная регуляция цикла месячных у подростков проводится следующим образом:

1. Гормонотерапия – пациентке подбирают оптимальный препарат и в процессе лечения контролируют уровень гормонов в крови.
2. Витамины – врач делает упор на правильное питание и назначает поливитаминные комплексы с преобладанием витаминов E и B.
3. Гомеопатия – подростку назначают препарат Циклодинон (капли или таблетки), если организм не страдает аллергией на его компоненты. На юный организм растительное средство воздействует мягко. Схему приёма разрабатывает врач с учетом причины и симптомов заболевания. Обычно препарат принимается утром и на ночь.

Противозачаточные таблетки с целью регуляции менструального цикла назначают даже девственницам. Препараты, подобранные врачом, безвредны.

Если после очередной задержки открываются обильные кровотечения и возникают головокружения и общая слабость, девочку направляют на процедуру выскабливания. До начала ее проведения девственную плеву обкалывают Новокаином. Инъекции уберегут ткань от разрыва.

Если нерегулярные месячные у подростка не связаны с заболеванием, родителям даются рекомендации по нормализации распорядка дня ребенка и по питанию. Важно окружить девочку заботой и любовью и уберечь от стрессов и переживаний. Но если несмотря на все старания цикл все равно не налаживается, есть смысл пройти тщательное обследование и выявить особенности организма. Возможно, причина сбоя месячных неопасна и индивидуальна.

90000 Menstruation in Girls and Adolescents: Using the Menstrual Cycle as a Vital Sign 90001 90002 Number 651 90003 (Replaces Committee Opinion 349, November 2006) 90004 90005 90002 Reaffirmed 2017 90005 90002 90009 Committee on Adolescent Health Care 90010 90005 90002 The American Academy of Pediatrics endorses this document. This document reflects emerging concepts on patient safety and is subject to change. The information should not be construed as dictating an exclusive course of treatment or procedure to be followed.90005 90014 90002 ABSTRACT: Despite variations worldwide and within the U.S. population, median age at menarche has remained relatively stable-between 12 years and 13 years-across well-nourished populations in developed countries. Environmental factors, including socioeconomic conditions, nutrition, and access to preventive health care, may influence the timing and progression of puberty. A number of medical conditions can cause abnormal uterine bleeding, characterized by unpredictable timing and variable amount of flow.Clinicians should educate girls and their caretakers (eg, parents or guardians) about what to expect of a first menstrual period and the range for normal cycle length of subsequent menses. Identification of abnormal menstrual patterns in adolescence may improve early identification of potential health concerns for adulthood. It is important for clinicians to have an understanding of the menstrual patterns of adolescent girls, the ability to differentiate between normal and abnormal menstruation, and the skill to know how to evaluate the adolescent girl patient.By including an evaluation of the menstrual cycle as an additional vital sign, clinicians reinforce its importance in assessing overall health status for patients and caretakers. 90005 90014 90018 Conclusions and Recommendations 90019 90002 Based on the following information, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists provides these conclusions and recommendations: 90005 90022 90023 90002 Clinicians should educate girls and their caretakers (eg, parents or guardians) about what to expect of a first menstrual period and the range for normal cycle length of subsequent menses.90005 90026 90023 90002 Once girls begin menstruating, clinicians should ask at every preventive care or comprehensive visit for the patient’s first day of her last menstrual period and the pattern of menses. 90005 90026 90023 90002 Identification of abnormal menstrual patterns in adolescence may improve early identification of potential health concerns for adulthood. 90005 90026 90023 90002 It is important for clinicians to have an understanding of the menstrual patterns of adolescent girls, the ability to differentiate between normal and abnormal menstruation, and the skill to know how to evaluate the adolescent girl patient.90005 90026 90039 90014 90018 Background 90019 90002 Young girls and their caretakers (eg, parents or guardians) frequently have difficulty assessing what constitutes normal menstrual cycles or patterns of bleeding. Patients and their caretakers may be unfamiliar with what is normal and patients may not inform their caretakers about menstrual irregularities or missed menses. In addition, a patient is often reluctant to discuss this topic with a caretaker, although the patient may confide in another trusted adult.Some adolescent girls may seek medical attention for cycle variations that actually fall within the normal range or may be unaware that their bleeding patterns are abnormal and may be attributable to significant underlying medical issues with the potential for long-term health consequences. 90005 90002 Clinicians also may be unsure about normal ranges for menstrual cycle length and the amount of menstrual bleeding during adolescence. Clinicians who are confident in their understanding of early menstrual bleeding patterns will be able to convey information to their patients more frequently and with less prompting; girls who have been educated about menarche and early menstrual patterns will experience less anxiety when they occur 1.By including an evaluation of the menstrual cycle as an additional vital sign, clinicians reinforce its importance in assessing overall health status for patients and caretakers. Just as abnormal blood pressure, heart rate, or respiratory rate may be key to diagnosing potentially serious health conditions, identification of abnormal menstrual patterns in adolescence may improve early identification of potential health concerns for adulthood. 90005 90014 90018 Normal Menstrual Cycles 90019 90050 Menarche 90051 90002 Despite variations worldwide and within the U.S. population, median age at menarche has remained relatively stable-between 12 years and 13 years-across well-nourished populations in developed countries Box 1 2 3. The U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys have found no significant change in the median age at menarche over the past 30 years, except among the non-Hispanic black population which has a 5.5-month earlier median age at menarche than it did 30 years ago 2. Studies have shown that a higher gain in body mass index during childhood is related to an earlier onset of puberty 4 5 that may result from attainment of a minimal requisite body mass index at a younger age.Environmental factors, including socioeconomic conditions, nutrition, and access to preventive health care, may influence the timing and progression of puberty 6. 90005 90018 Normal Menstrual Cycles in Adolescent Girls 90019 90056 90057 90058 90059 Menarche (median age): 90060 90059 12.43 years 90060 90063 90058 90059 Mean cycle interval: 90060 90059 32.2 days in first gynecologic year 90060 90063 90058 90059 Menstrual cycle interval: 90060 90059 Typically 21-45 days 90060 90063 90058 90059 Menstrual flow length: 90060 90059 7 days or less 90060 90063 90058 90059 Menstrual product use: 90060 90059 Three to six pads or tampons per day 90060 90063 90088 90089 90002 Menarche typically occurs within 2-3 years after thelarche (breast budding), at Tanner stage IV breast development, and is rare before Tanner stage III development 7.By age 15 years, 98% of females will have had menarche 2. An evaluation for primary amenorrhea should be considered for any adolescent who has not reached menarche by age 15 years or has not done so within 3 years of thelarche. Lack of breast development by age 13 years also should be evaluated 8. 90005 90050 Cycle Length and Ovulation 90051 90002 Menstrual cycles are often irregular during adolescence, particularly the interval from the first cycle to the second cycle. Most females bleed for 2-7 days during their first menses 9 10.Immaturity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis during the early years after menarche often results in anovulation and cycles may be somewhat long; however, 90% of cycles will be within the range of 21-45 days 11, although short cycles of less than 20 days and long cycles of more than 45 days may occur. By the third year after menarche, 60-80% of menstrual cycles are 21-34 days long, as is typical of adults 10 11 12. 90005 90014 90018 Abnormal Uterine Bleeding 90019 90002 A number of medical conditions can cause abnormal uterine bleeding, characterized by unpredictable timing and variable amount of flow.Although a long interval between cycles is common in adolescence due to anovulation, it is statistically uncommon for girls and adolescents to remain amenorrheic for more than 3 months or 90 days (the 95th percentile for cycle length). Girls and adolescents with more than 3 months between periods should be evaluated. Although experts typically report that the mean blood loss per menstrual period is 30 mL per cycle and that chronic loss of more than 80 mL is associated with anemia, this has limited clinical use because most females are unable to measure their blood loss.Menstrual flow requiring changes of menstrual products every 1-2 hours is considered excessive, particularly when associated with flow that lasts more than 7 days at a time. 90005 90002 Abnormal uterine bleeding may be caused by ovulatory dysfunction, and bleeding patterns can range from amenorrhea to irregular heavy menstrual bleeding. Although ovulatory dysfunction is somewhat physiologic the first few years after menarche, it can be associated with endocrinopathies due to hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis disturbances, such as polycystic ovary syndrome and thyroid disease, as well as mental stress and eating disorders 13 14.Heavy menstrual bleeding, commonly associated with anovulation, also has been associated with the diagnosis of a coagulopathy (including von Willebrand’s disease, platelet function disorders, and other bleeding disorders) or other serious problems (including hepatic failure) and, rarely, malignancy 15 16 17 18 19. See Box 2 for a list of potential causes of abnormal uterine bleeding in adolescents. The diagnosis of pregnancy, sexual trauma, and sexually transmitted infections should be excluded, even if the history suggests the patient has not been sexually active.90005 90018 Causes of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding in Adolescent Girls 90019 90022 90023 90002 Pregnancy 90005 90026 90023 90002 Immaturity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis 90005 90026 90023 90002 Hyperandrogenic anovulation (eg, polycystic ovary syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or androgenproducing tumors) * 90005 90026 90023 90002 Coagulopathy (eg, von Willebrand disease, platelet function disorders, other bleeding disorders, or hepatic failure) 90120 † 90121 90005 90026 90023 90002 Hypothalamic dysfunction (eg, eating disorders [obesity, underweight, or significant fast weight loss] or stress-related hypothalamic dysfunction) 90005 90026 90023 90002 Hyperprolactinemia 90005 90026 90023 90002 Thyroid disease 90005 90026 90023 90002 Primary pituitary disease 90005 90026 90023 90002 Primary ovarian insufficiency 90120 ‡ 90121 90005 90026 90023 90002 Iatrogenic (eg, secondary to radiation or chemotherapy) 90005 90026 90023 90002 Medications (eg, hormonal contraception or anticoagulation therapy) 90005 90026 90023 90002 Sexually transmitted infections (eg, cervicitis) 90005 90026 90023 90002 Malignancy (eg, estrogen-producing ovarian tumors, androgen-producing tumors, or rhabdomyosarcoma) 90005 90026 90023 90002 Uterine lesions 90005 90026 90039 90002 * Se e Polycystic ovary syndrome.ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 108. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Obstet Gynecol 2009 року; 114: 936-49 http://www.acog.org/-/media/Practice-Bulletins/Committee-on-Practice-Bulletins—-Gynecology/pb108.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20150918T1543541376 and Management of adnexal masses. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 83. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Obstet Gynecol 2007; 110: 201-14 http://www.acog.org/-/media/Practice-Bulletins/Committee-on-Practice-Bulletins—-Gynecology/pb083.pdf? dmc = 1 & ts = 20150918T1547432631. 90005 90002 90120 † 90121 See Von Willebrand disease in women. Committee Opinion No. 580. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Obstet Gynecol 2013; 122: 1368-73 http://www.acog.org/-/media/Committee-Opinions/Committee-on-Adolescent-Health-Care/co580.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20150918T1548433882. 90005 90002 90120 ‡ 90121 See Primary ovarian insufficiency in adolescents and young women. Committee Opinion No. 605. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Obstet Gynecol 2014; 123: 193-7http: //www.acog.org/-/media/Committee-Opinions/Committee-on-Adolescent-Health-Care/co605.pdf? Dmc = 1 & ts = 20150918T1549212476. 90005 90014 90018 Anticipatory Guidance 90019 90002 Clinicians should include pubertal development in their anticipatory guidance to children and caretakers beginning at the 7 year and 8 year visits 20. Clinicians should take an ongoing history and perform a complete annual examination, including the inspection of the external genitalia. It is important to educate girls and their caretakers about the usual progression of puberty and development of the menstrual cycle.Clinicians should convey that females will likely begin to menstruate approximately 2-3 years after breast development begins. Adolescent girls should understand that menstruation is a normal part of development and should be instructed on the use of feminine products and on what is considered normal menstrual flow. It is preferred that caretakers and clinicians participate in this educational process. 90005 90014 90018 Evaluation 90019 90002 Preventive health visits should begin during adolescence to start a dialogue and establish an environment where a patient can feel good about taking responsibility for her own reproductive health and feel confident that her concerns will be addressed in a confidential setting 20 21 .Because menarche is such an important milestone in physical development, clinicians should educate adolescent girls and their caretakers about what to expect of a first menstrual period and the range for normal cycle length of subsequent menses. Once adolescent girls begin menstruating, clinicians should ask at every preventive care or comprehensive visit for the patient’s first day of her last menstrual period and the pattern of menses. By including this information with the other vital signs within the Review of Systems and History of Present Illness, clinicians emphasize the important role of menstrual patterns in reflecting overall health status.90005 90002 Asking the patient to chart her menses may be beneficial, especially if her menstrual history is too vague or considered to be inaccurate. The importance of accurate charting should be emphasized and the patient should be educated about what would be considered an abnormal menstrual cycle. Clinicians should explain that cycle length is counted from the first day of a menstrual period to the first day of the next menses and may vary by cycle because this often leads to miscommunication between patients and clinicians.Use of technology can facilitate charting; there are a number of easy to use smart phones applications designed for this purpose. 90005 90002 It is important for clinicians to have an understanding of the menstrual patterns of adolescent girls, the ability to differentiate between normal and abnormal menstruation, and the skill to know how to evaluate the adolescent girl patient. Menstrual abnormalities that suggest the need for further evaluation are listed in Box 3. 90005 90018 Menstrual Abnormalities That May Require Evaluation 90019 90002 Menstrual periods that 90005 90022 90023 90002 have not started within 3 years of thelarche 90005 90026 90023 90002 have not started by 14 years of age with signs of hirsutism 90005 90026 90023 90002 have not started by 14 years of age with a history or examination suggestive of excessive exercise or eating disorder 90005 90026 90023 90002 have not started by 15 years of age 90005 90026 90023 90002 occur more frequently than every 21 days or less frequently than every 45 days 90005 90026 90023 90002 occur 90 days apart even for one cycle 90005 90026 90023 90002 last more than 7 days 90005 90026 90023 90002 require frequent pad or tampon changes (soaking more than one every 1-2 hours) 90005 90026 90023 90002 are heavy and are associated with a history of excessive bruising or bleeding or a famil y history of a bleeding disorder 90005 90026 90039 90002 90002 Copyright December 2015 by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 409 12th Street, SW, PO Box 96920, Washington, DC 20090-6920.All rights reserved. 90005 90002 ISSN 1074-861X 90005 90002 Menstruation in girls and adolescents: using the menstrual cycle as a vital sign. Committee Opinion No. 651. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Obstet Gynecol 2015; 126: e143-6. 90005 90005.90000 Cute 12 Year Old Girl Images, Stock Photos & Vectors 90001 You’re currently using an older browser and your experience may not be optimal. Please consider upgrading. Learn more. ImagesImages homeCurated collectionsPhotosVectorsOffset ImagesCategoriesAbstractAnimals / WildlifeThe ArtsBackgrounds / TexturesBeauty / FashionBuildings / LandmarksBusiness / FinanceCelebritiesEditorialEducationFood and DrinkHealthcare / MedicalHolidaysIllustrations / Clip-ArtIndustrialInteriorsMiscellaneousNatureObjectsParks / OutdoorPeopleReligionScienceSigns / SymbolsSports / RecreationTechnologyTransportationVectorsVintageAll categoriesFootageFootage homeCurated collectionsShutterstock SelectShutterstock ElementsCategoriesAnimals / WildlifeBuildings / LandmarksBackgrounds / TexturesBusiness / FinanceEducationFood and DrinkHealth CareHolidaysObjectsIndustrialArtNaturePeopleReligionScienceTechnologySigns / SymbolsSports / RecreationTransportationEditorialAll categoriesEditorialEditorial homeEntertainmentNewsRoyaltySportsMusicMusic homePremiumBeatToolsShutterstock EditorMobile appsPluginsImage resizerFile converterCollage makerColor schemesBlogBlog homeDesignVideoContributorNews 90002 PremiumBeat blogEnterprisePric ing 90003 Log in 90004 90003 Sign up 90004 90003 Menu 90004 FiltersAll images 90009 90010 All images 90011 90012 Photos 90011 90014 Vectors 90011 90016 Illustrations 90011 90018 Editorial 90011 90020 Footage 90011 90022 Music 90011 90002 90025 Search by image 90011 90027 90003 cute 12 year old girl 90004 90003 Search by image 90004 90032 90003 90034 Sort by 90011 90004 90027.90000 Periods, the menstrual cycle, PMS, and treatment 90001 90002 If you buy something through a link on this page, we may earn a small commission. How this works. 90003 90002 A period, or menstruation, is the shedding of the lining of the womb. Menstruation is also known as menses. Menses are part of normal sexual health for women during their reproductive years. 90003 90002 Menstruation that includes bleeding from the vagina is found mainly among humans and similar animals, such as primates.90003 90002 The endometrial tissue is shed from the womb and is released through the vagina. 90003 90002 Women have a period approximately every 28 days; however, there is some variation in this cycle, ranging from a 24-day to a 35-day cycle. A period is part of the woman’s menstrual cycle. It is a sign that the body is working normally. 90003 90012 Fast facts on menstruation 90013 90002 Here are some key points about menstruation. 90003 90016 90017 Periods normally start between the ages of 8 and 16 years.90018 90017 On average, around 5 to12 teaspoons of blood are shed. 90018 90017 Symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) include bloating, irritability, and breast tenderness. 90018 90017 Irregular periods affect many women, but if you are concerned, you should see a doctor. 90018 90025 Share on PinterestThe menstrual cycle lasts an average of 28 days, but variations are possible. 90002 Menstruation marks the beginning of a woman’s reproductive years. From the time when she has her first period, or a few days before, she can become pregnant.Menstruation will end with menopause, usually between the ages of 45 and 55 years. 90003 90002 A young woman will notice her first period because blood will come from her vagina. 90003 90002 A woman has two ovaries, each of which contains a number of eggs. Every month during the reproductive years an egg will be released. Also, every month, the womb prepares a lining in case the egg should become fertilized. If the egg does not become fertilized, the lining is not needed and, together with the egg, it will be shed.We see this shedding as blood. This is what we call a period. 90003 90002 If the egg is fertilized, the womb will need the lining, and it will not be shed. This is why periods stop when pregnancy begins. 90003 90002 Menarche is the start of periods. It will occur when all the parts that make up a girl’s reproductive system are mature and working together. 90003 90002 A girl’s periods generally begin between the ages of 12 and 14 years, but this can vary from 8 to 16 years. Menstruation is a major stage in a girl’s puberty.It is one of several physical signs that a girl is becoming a woman. 90003 90002 Around 6 months before getting her first period, a girl may detect more clear vaginal discharge. Unless the discharge has a strong odor or causes itchiness, this is normal and nothing to worry about. The periods will occur regularly until the woman reaches her menopause. 90003 90002 Hormones are released by the pituitary gland in the brain to stimulate the ovaries during the reproductive cycle. These hormones cause some of the woman’s eggs, which are stored in the follicles of her ovaries, to start to grow and mature.90003 90002 The follicles start producing a hormone called estrogen. The increased estrogen causes the womb lining to become thicker in preparation for receiving a fertilized egg. 90003 90002 If a woman has had sex within several days of the egg being released and sperm is present in her fallopian tube, the egg may become fertilized and she will become pregnant. 90003 90002 90047 However, it is important to note that pregnancy is possible with unprotected sex at any time during the menstrual cycle.90048 90003 90002 If the egg is not fertilized, estrogen and progesterone levels will drop, and the lining of the uterus (endometrium) will start breaking down. This marks the start of the period. 90003 90002 The period consists of a small amount of blood and the endometrium. The bleeding is caused by the breaking of fine blood vessels within the womb as the lining detaches itself. 90003 90002 A period generally lasts about 5 days. Bleeding tends to be heavier during the first 2 days. Even when the blood flow seems heavy, the amount of blood lost is usually around 5 to 12 teaspoons.90003 90002 Some women experience heavier than normal periods, known as menorrhagia. Menorrhagia should be evaluated by a doctor as it can lead to problems such as anemia, because of a low blood count. 90003 90002 Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or premenstrual tension (PMT) is a collection of emotional, psychological, and physical symptoms that are linked to a woman’s menstrual cycle. 90003 90002 Symptoms that may be felt by some women in the days leading up to her period include: 90003 90016 90017 abdominal bloating 90018 90017 acne 90018 90017 headache, including migraine 90018 90017 irritability 90018 90017 pains, especially backache 90018 90017 low mood 90018 90017 feeling generally emotional or troubled 90018 90017 insomnia 90018 90017 lack of concentration 90018 90017 breast tenderness or swelling 90018 90017 slight weight gain 90018 90017 binge eating 90018 90025 90002 As soon as the period begins and the woman starts shedding blood, the symptoms generally improve.In most cases, symptoms will be completely gone by the time the period has ended. 90003 90002 The following factors may increase the chances of PMS: 90003 90002 The average length of a cycle is 28 days, but it can vary from 21 to 40 days. 90003 90002 For many women, the length of the cycle and the amount of blood shed is around the same every cycle. However, some women have irregular periods. 90003 90002 There may be variations in: 90003 90016 90017 the interval length between periods 90018 90017 the amount of blood lost 90018 90017 the duration of bleeding 90018 90025 90002 Irregular periods can have different causes, and treatment will depend on the cause.90003 90002 It is not unusual to have irregular periods for up to 6 years after the start of menstruation or during perimenopause, when the woman’s body is preparing for menopause. 90003 90002 Many women have missed a period at some time. This could be for no apparent reason, or in anticipation of a pregnancy, or perhaps because of anxiety or tension. 90003 90002 Irregular periods may be caused by a wide range of factors including the following: 90003 90016 90017 benign lesions like uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, and scarring 90018 90017 hormone imbalance 90018 90017 bleeding disorders 90018 90017 medications 90018 90017 changes in birth control methods 90018 90017 infection in the uterus 90018 90017 cancer of the uterine lining or cervical cancer 90018 90025 90002 Anyone who is concerned about irregular periods should see a doctor.90003 90012 What is amenorrhea (absent periods)? 90013 90002 Amenorrhea is when a woman stops having periods altogether, usually having missed three periods in a row. It is also used if a girl has not begun menstruation by the age of 15 years. 90003 90002 Reasons for this include: 90003 90016 90017 excessive exercise or weight loss 90018 90017 stress 90018 90017 some medications, including birth control 90018 90017 hormonal problems 90018 90017 pregnancy 90018 90025 90002 Doctors may prescribe hormonal therapy to treat amenorrhea.90003 90002 This is a medical condition that includes severe uterine pain during menstruation. 90003 90002 Most women experience minor pain during menstruation, but if the pain is so severe that it interferes with normal activity, it is called dysmenorrhea. It may require medication. 90003 90002 Some women experience pain during the days before a period, while others have dysmenorrhea during the period. As menstruation tapers off, the pain generally does, too. 90003 90002 Some women experience both dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia, or excessive blood loss.90003 90002 The following symptoms may be present: 90003 90016 90017 cramping and pain in the lower abdomen 90018 90017 diarrhea 90018 90017 headaches 90018 90017 low back pain 90018 90017 nausea 90018 90017 pain that radiates down the legs 90018 90017 tiredness and fatigue 90018 90017 weakness 90018 90017 vomiting 90018 90025 90002 dysmenorrhea is more likely in the following groups: 90003 90002 Secondary dysmenorrhea can occur with some health conditions related to the reproductive system, including endometriosis and fibroids.90003 90002 Here are some facts about menstruation and pregnancy: 90003 90016 90017 It is unlikely but still possible to become pregnant if you have sex during your period, depending on the length of your monthly cycle, because sperm can stay alive for up to 5 days . 90018 90017 The purpose of periods is to prepare the womb for conception. If conception does not take place, the unused egg and lining are shed, and the uterus gets ready to have another try. Periods do not continue during pregnancy because conception has taken place.90018 90017 You are unlikely to have a period during pregnancy, but light spotting or bleeding may happen during pregnancy at the time you would normally have had a period. 90018 90017 Bleeding may occur around week 6, at the time the placenta takes over nourishing the fetus. 90018 90017 Bleeding can be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy or pregnancy loss. Any bleeding should be reported to a doctor. 90018 90025 90002 Women who experience uncomfortable symptoms related to menstruation may find that treatment offers some relief.90003 90016 90017 90047 Painkillers: 90048 For period pains and discomfort, painkillers can be effective. These could include acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen, and aspirin. 90018 90017 90047 Contraception: 90048 The contraceptive pill often eases period pains. The lining of the uterus will be thinner, resulting in less contraction during menstruation. 90018 90017 90047 Exercise: 90048 Exercise has been found to help reduce the level of discomfort and pain experienced by women with period problems.90018 90017 90047 Relaxation techniques: 90048 These can include breathing exercises, massage, and medication. Some women practice yoga for easing pain and stress. 90018 90017 90047 Heat treatment: 90048 Holding a hot water bottle against the abdomen may help in reducing discomfort. 90018 90017 90047 Warm bath: 90048 Apart from helping with relaxation, a warm bath may also provide some relief from pain or discomfort. 90018 90025 90002 Menstrual products used to absorb or catch the menses come in either disposable or reusable forms.90003 90012 Disposable menstrual products 90013 90016 90017 90047 Sanitary pads or napkins: 90048 Towels, pads, or napkins are placed in the underwear and absorb the menstrual flow. 90018 90017 90047 Tampons: 90048 These are cylinders that are inserted into the vagina, where they absorb the menstrual flow. They are made from treated rayon or cotton blends, or 100 percent cotton fleece. 90018 90025 90012 Reusable menstrual products 90013 90016 90017 90047 Cloth pads: 90048 These are generally made of cotton, terrycloth, or flannel.They are placed externally. They are washable. 90018 90017 90047 Menstrual cups: 90048 These are inserted directly into the vagina to catch the menstrual flow. They are reusable. There are also disposable versions. 90018 90017 90047 Reusable underwear: 90048 Often called “padded panties,” these are usually made of cotton with absorbent layers sewn on. They can be washed and reused. 90018 90017 90047 Blanket: 90048 Also known as a towel or draw sheet. These are large pieces of cloth that are placed between the legs used during sleep.They can be washed and used again. 90018 90025 90002 A wide range of menstrual products is available for purchase online. 90003.90000 All About Periods (for Teens) 90001 90002 90003 A period is a release of blood from a girl’s uterus, out through her vagina. It is a sign that she is getting close to the end of puberty. 90004 90003 There is a lot to learn about periods.Here are some common questions that teens have. 90004 90007 When Do Most Girls Get Their Period? 90008 90003 Most girls get their first period when they’re around 12. But getting it any time between age 10 and 15 is OK. Every girl’s body has its own schedule. 90004 90003 There is not one right age for a girl to get her period.But there are some clues that it will start soon: 90004 90013 90014 Most of the time, a girl gets her period about 2 years after her breasts start to develop. 90015 90014 Another sign is vaginal discharge fluid (sort of like mucus) that a girl might see or feel on her underwear.This discharge usually begins about 6 months to a year before a girl gets her first period. 90015 90018 90007 What Causes a Period? 90008 90003 A period happens because of changes in hormones in the body.Hormones are chemical messengers. The ovaries release the female hormones estrogen and progesterone . These hormones cause the lining of the uterus (or womb) to build up.The built-up lining is ready for a fertilized egg to attach to and start developing. If there is no fertilized egg, the lining breaks down and bleeds. Then the same process happens all over again. 90004 90003 90024 90004 90003 It usually takes about a month for the lining to build up, then break down.That is why most girls and women get their periods around once a month. 90004 90007 How Does Ovulation Relate to Periods? 90008 90003 90031 Ovulation 90032 (pronounced: ov-yoo-LAY-shun) is the release of an egg from the ovaries. The same hormones that cause the uterus lining to build up also cause an egg to leave one of the ovaries.The egg travels through a thin tube called a fallopian tube to the uterus. 90004 90003 If the egg is fertilized by a sperm cell, it attaches to the wall of the uterus, where over time it develops into a baby. If the egg is not fertilized, the uterus lining breaks down and bleeds, causing a period.90004 90007 Do Periods Happen Regularly When Menstruation Starts? 90008 90003 For the first few years after a girl starts her period, it may not come regularly. This is normal at first. By about 2-3 years after her first period, a girl’s periods should be coming around once every 4-5 weeks.90004 90007 Can a Girl Get Pregnant as Soon as Her Period Starts? 90008 90003 Yes, a girl can get pregnant as soon as her period starts. A girl can even get pregnant right before her very first period. This is because a girl’s hormones might already be active. The hormones may have led to ovulation and the building of the uterine wall.If a girl has sex, she can get pregnant, even though she has never had a period. 90004 90007 How Long Do Periods Last? 90008 90003 Periods usually last about 5 days. But a period can be shorter or last longer. 90004 90007 How Often Does a Period Happen? 90008 90003 Periods usually happen about once every 4-5 weeks.But some girls get their periods a little less or more often. 90004 90007 Should I Use a Pad, Tampon, or Menstrual Cup? 90008 90003 You have many choices about how to deal with period blood. You may need to experiment a bit to find which works best for you.Some girls use only one method and others switch between different methods. 90004 90013 90014 Most girls use 90031 pads 90032 when they first get their period. Pads are made of cotton and come in lots of different sizes and shapes. They have sticky strips that attach to the underwear.90015 90014 Many girls find 90031 tampons 90032 more convenient than pads, especially when playing sports or swimming. A tampon is a cotton plug that a girl puts into her vagina. Most tampons come with an applicator that guides the tampon into place. The tampon absorbs the blood. Do not leave a tampon in for more than 8 hours because this can increase your risk of a serious infection called toxic shock syndrome.90015 90014 Some girls prefer a 90031 menstrual cup 90032. Most menstrual cups are made of silicone. To use a menstrual cup, a girl inserts it into her vagina. It holds the blood until she empties it. 90015 90018 90007 How Much Blood Comes Out? 90008 90003 It may look like a lot of blood, but a girl usually only loses a few tablespoons of blood during the whole period.Most girls need to change their pad, tampon, or menstrual cup about 3-6 times a day. 90004 90007 Will I Have Periods for the Rest of My Life? 90008 90003 When women reach menopause (around age 45-55), their periods will permanently stop. Women also will not have a period while they are pregnant.90004 90007 What Is PMS? 90008 90003 PMS (premenstrual syndrome) is when a girl has emotional and physical symptoms that happen before or during her period. These symptoms can include moodiness, sadness, anxiety, bloating, and acne. The symptoms go away after the first few days of a period.90004 90007 What Can I Do About Cramps? 90008 90003 Many girls have cramps with their period, especially in the first few days. If cramps bother you, you can try: 90004 90013 90014 a warm heating pad on your belly 90015 90014 taking ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, or store brand) or naproxen (Aleve or store brand) 90015 90018 90007 Should I Watch for Any Problems? 90008 90003 Most girls do not have any problems with their periods.But call your doctor if you: 90004 90013 90014 are 15 and have not started your period 90015 90014 have had your period for more than 2 years and it still does not come regularly (About every 4-5 weeks) 90015 90014 have bleeding between periods 90015 90014 have severe cramps that do not get better with ibuprofen or naproxen 90015 90014 have very heavy bleeding (bleeding that goes through a pad or tampon faster than every 1 hour) 90015 90014 have periods that last more than about a week 90015 90014 have severe PMS that gets in the way of your everyday activities 90015 90018 90007 Looking Ahead 90008 90003 Periods are a natural, healthy part of a girl’s life.They should not get in the way of exercising, having fun, and enjoying life. If you have questions about periods, ask your doctor, a parent, health teacher, school nurse, or older sister. 90004 90003 Date reviewed: October 2018 90004 .