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Forum Name: Gynecology

Question: Missed Periods ...

LCH113 - Fri Feb 02, 2007 5:16 am

Hi I am a 20-year-old who has never had the most regular periods. The only time they were fairly regular was during sports seasons in my highschool years when I was exercising a lot and eating really well (plus sports were always a stress reliever for me). However, I haven't had my period since the end of October and I'm starting to get worried because I've never gone this long without having a period. Here's some more information though ... I was at collegel down in Florida from August until October but had a VERY stressful few months down there because in September my father was diagnosed with Lung cancer ... however he really wanted me to finish the semester at college before coming home to see him. So, as you can understand, I was completely stressed out. Then, in early October, my father passed away. Of course I went through the range of emotions as anyone would. Not only did this happen, but I had to drop out of school, move back home and deal with my loss. I also took a big trip in November (10 hours each way on a plane -- I've heard flying on planes can mess with your period, too, maybe I'm wrong). But over the past few months I've had my good days and my bad but I'm sure the emotions and grief are taking a toll on my body. Another thing is that I've gained a lot of weight since my last period ... probably 10-15 or so (put that on a couple of weeks in November/December) and have kept it on, plus I haven't been exersizing very much. My BMI is 31. 5 now which fits into the obese category (I was very athletic through highschool so I do have a lot of muscle, but obviously I'm overweight right now expecially after adding the 10-15 pounds) I also started school at a new university which adds more stresses. So basically all of these factors are things that can affect your period. I haven't been to a gyno yet and am not sexually active so I was hoping to wait until next year (when I turn 21) to make that fun visit, but I'm worried now since I ahven't had my period. I'm starting to eat a lot better, take a daily vitamin and just try to relax and release the stres ... is it bad for me to give it another month or so to see if I can get healthier and try to get back to normal or is this a serious problem that I need to see a doctor for right now? I'm sorry this is so long ... I've been stressing otu about it since December (which probably doesn't help the situation). Thanks for your help!

Dr. Leigh Anderson - Fri Feb 02, 2007 6:51 am

Hi LCH113, With the recent events with your father passing it is EXTREMELY likely that your body has suffered emotional Trama, which can cause your hormones to go completely off the chart, and can/will delay your menstrual cycle. Unless you are experiencing abnornal vaginal pain or discomfort in your ovaries, or un-explained vaginal bleeding, I would not be to concerned with any medical related problems. When a woman becomes exposed to extreme stress (such as what you are going thru) it is very normal to experience a delay of your period. Some doctors will prescribe Anxiety medication to help regulate your emotions. So please speak to your physcian about how this could benefit you in dealing with the recent events in your life. Keep in touch, And I Convey my sincere sympathy with the passing of your father. Dr. Anderson

LCH113 - Sat Feb 03, 2007 3:04 am

Dr. Anderson, Thanks so much for your response. It eases my stress a bit and I really apprecaite you taking the time. I'm definietly going to try to start eating better again and try to get my life back to as close to normal as I can ... which will hopefully bring my period back, too. Obviously it's going to take some time to get the weight off, etc., so is there a point that I should DEFINITELY go see a doctor (it's been 3 months since my last period)? I feel perfectly healthy otherwise. Thanks again! - Lauren

Dr. Leigh Anderson - Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:10 pm

Hi Lauren, If your period does not occur within the next few weeks, I would see your doctor so he can prescribe to you a birth control contraceptive to regulate your period. Just remember, just because you are not having a normal period, you can still become pregnant. Good Luck, keep in touch :)

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