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Hi! I'm Dr Petra.
I'm a psychologist based at University College London and I research sex and relationships. Fire away and ask me what you need to know. Don't be embarrassed - I'm here to sort out all your awkward, personal, and just plain confusing problems |
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| Hello
I’m 17 and had my first period about 2 years ago, they aren't regular and i haven’t had one in about 5 months.
Is there anything i should be worried about?
Also my mum was saying something about excess pubic hair being related to having no periods, and now i am concerned as ever. . should i be concerned?
Also I’m a little nervous going to a doctor, to get checked out, its a bit embarrassing!
Please reply soon.
Thanks
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| Periods can start at any time in our teenage years, and around 15 is okay. It’s also normal that when you start having periods they’re not very regular. In fact most women don’t have periods that are all that regular. So going a few months between periods can be normal, although you may find the time between your periods gets shorter as you get older. Your mum might be talking about a condition called ‘polycystic ovary syndrome’ (PCOS) which can cause a number of symptoms (including irregular periods). Some women with PCOS can have more noticeable hair on their bodies – including thicker pubic hair. However, since nowadays we’re so used to people shaving their pubic hair that people often think they’ve got too much just because they’ve got a natural growth of hair.
It may be that you simply have irregular periods, but if you’re worried it might be something like PCOS (particularly since your mum’s mentioned it) then it might be worth seeing the doctor.
In terms of going to the doctor it’s understandable you feel nervous, but please try not to be since doctors are used to hearing about all kinds of things – and period problems are something they hear a lot about. You can ask to see a female doctor, or a practice nurse – they will make you feel relaxed and can reassure you. If they think you need any tests (for PCOS) then they’ll arrange this. They may suggest you try the contraceptive pill to make your cycle more regular.
Do speak to a doctor or nurse since the sooner you do so the sooner they can reassure you.
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