“Is my period normal?”
I am 13 years old and have had my period for about three years now. I have had really bad cramps that lasted 5 days the last 2-3 times. I take Motrin and Tylenol to help, but sometimes that doesn't even work. I try putting a heating pad on my stomach and massage oil, but that only does a little bit to help. Also, my period sometimes doesn't come for 6 months. Usually, it comes 3-4 months apart. I sometimes get cramps in between my periods and I was wondering if you could just help me figure out what is wrong. I have been dealing with these symptoms for about 2 years now.
Female | 13 years old
Complaint duration: 2
3 Answers
Obstetrics&Gynecology|GynecologyOB-GYN
Thanks for the question. Certainly, menstrual cramps are a concern given they could be debilitating. That said, your cycles as irregular as they are could be intense with each occurrence given you may have more tissue expulsion. At any rate, medical management may be helpful to regularize the cycle - such as birth control contraception, and minimizing the menstrual pain. My advice is to discuss this with your PCP to consider this recommendation. Hope this was helpful.
There is nothing abnormal. You are not ovulating every month, this is normal for your age. For the cramps, there are better anti-inflammatory agents; see your doctor for a prescription.
Pain during second or third day of your period could be normal, but your pain seems to be severe. Endometriosis could be a concern. First thing to do is talk to your pediatrician and ask your pediatrician to refer to an OBGyn. Birth control pills help prevent pain with endometriosis, discuss this with your OBGyn. Sometimes pediatricians are comfortable starting you on the pills. For now, start taking ibuprofen 400 mg three times a day, one day before your period starts and continue for 2 days after your period stops.
Hope you feel better! Take care!
Hope you feel better! Take care!
