Females: Your Period / Question
Published: March 27, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I have not had my period for over a year. I'm 18 now and I started when I was 13 and was normal until I was about 16 and I'm worried but I'm not sexually active. What are the worst things that can result from this?
Signed: Period Probs - No Period For Over A Year
Dear Period Probs - No Period For Over A Year,
TeenHealthFX cannot diagnose you over the internet and strongly recommends that you see your doctor as soon as possible. Abnormalities in your cycle can be due to many factors. Stress, changes in weight, activity level and certain underlying medical conditions can all disrupt your cycle.
Since you are 18 you should begin to see a gynecologist for routine checkups regardless of if you are sexually active or not. The absence of your period for over a year is cause for concern and only a doctor can tell you what the cause is. Irregular periods followed by a sudden absence could be due to hormonal changes or a disorder that only your doctor can detect.
Not getting a proper examination or test could lead you to overlook a condition that needs attention. Also not addressing this current problem could lead to further menstrual problems in the future.
Due to the nature of your situation it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible. If you live in northern New Jersey and would like help finding a doctor you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973.971.6475. You can also check out Planned Parenthood, to locate your local Planned Parenthood center.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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