What should you know about missed periods in teenagers?

Periods may be unpredictable for a while after menstruation starts because ovulation is still becoming established. A missed bleed can also follow emotional stress, disrupted sleep, illness, intensive exercise, or eating too little for the body's needs. Pregnancy is possible whenever sperm has had contact with the vagina, even if cycles are usually irregular.

Polycystic ovary syndrome can present with infrequent periods alongside acne or increased hair growth. Other hormone or thyroid-related problems are possible. Perimenopause is not a usual explanation for a teenager; an unusual pattern that continues should be evaluated rather than attributed to age alone.

Write down the last period, earlier cycle dates, recent illness, exercise, eating changes, medicines, and any sexual contact that could result in pregnancy. Take a pregnancy test if relevant and repeat or seek advice if the result is unclear. Arrange a GP appointment when missed periods recur, periods never become established, or symptoms are affecting wellbeing. Do not use hormones or supplements to restart bleeding without professional guidance.

Get urgent help for severe or one-sided lower abdominal pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, or a positive pregnancy test with pain or bleeding. Seek prompt review for headaches with vision changes, nipple discharge unrelated to breastfeeding, rapid hair growth, marked weight change, or a missed period with fever or unusual discharge.

Ask whether testing is needed, how pregnancy should be ruled out, and what cycle pattern should be monitored. Tell the clinician about privacy concerns, sexual health, food and exercise changes, stress, medicines, and family history of late or absent periods.