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What causes irregular periods and cramps in a teenager?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 18 year-old girl who has been skipping periods for the past two months. I last received it three months ago, and I am currently experiencing a little cramping.

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Georges Hany Kozah

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

It is normal for teen girls to have irregular periods, especially in the first few years after they start. Your body is still adjusting to hormonal changes, which can cause skipped or delayed periods.

Possible reasons for your delayed period:

  1. Hormonal imbalance – Your body is still developing, and sometimes ovulation does not happen regularly.

  2. Stress and anxiety – School, exams, or personal life stress can affect your cycle.

  3. Weight changes – Gaining or losing weight suddenly can delay periods.

  4. Excessive exercise – If you are very active, your body might delay your cycle.

  5. PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) – A common condition that can cause irregular periods.

  6. Nutrient deficiency – Low iron, vitamin D, or a poor diet can impact periods.

What You Can Do:

  1. Track your period – You can use a period application to monitor your cycle.

  2. Eat a healthy diet – Include iron-rich foods (spinach, eggs, nuts) and drink plenty of water.

  3. Manage stress – Try yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.

  4. Avoid excessive exercise – If you are doing intense workouts, balance them with rest.

See a doctor if:

  1. Your period does not come for another month.

  2. You have severe pain.

  3. You notice unusual hair growth, acne, or weight changes.

Since you have slight cramps and back pain, your period might be coming soon. If you want, I can suggest some natural ways to help bring your period faster. Let me know!

I hope this helps.

Take care.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At May 16, 2025
Reviewed At May 22, 2025

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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