What can be the common cause of menstrual irregularities in an 18-year-old?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 18 years old. I am scared because my period is irregular, and I have not gotten my period yet. My boyfriend and I tried to have sex, but it was not total sex as he did not ejaculate. I am scared if there was any precum, but he is sure there was none. I am worried and want to ensure that I am not pregnant. Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I would like to ask a few questions for a better understanding.

1) When did you get your first period?

2) How long ago was it?

3) Have you had irregular cycles before, or is this the first time?

4) Do you experience any pain or discomfort when you get your periods, and do you track your periods regularly?

It is usually normal for a teenager to experience irregular periods for a few years due to the establishment of the menstrual cycle in the body. It also depends on the age of menarche (first period) and the time duration since having the first period. Menstrual irregularities may also occur due to stress, extreme dieting, massive weight loss or gain, and intense exercise.

Another cause of menstrual irregularities is an imbalance of the thyroid hormone. In case you have experienced none of the above-mentioned causes, it would be advisable to have your thyroid hormone profile performed.

Suppose you are not consuming a healthy, balanced diet with more whole foods, including seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats, and moderate carbohydrates, or you are experiencing stress. In that case, it may be the underlying cause of your irregularity. If you are performing heavy exercises, you must reduce the intensity. Addressing your concern regarding pregnancy, the only way to be sure is to get a pregnancy test performed. I recommend you get a beta-hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) test as over-the-counter pregnancy kits may not be very accurate.

I hope this is helpful.