Females: Your Period / Question
Published: April 16, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I have had my period for about two and a half years now. It has never been regualar. When I get it, I usually have cramps until four days into it, and the whole thing lasts about TEN days. I also get really depressed about a week before my period, and whenever i get my period, i get these hard lumps right behind my ears...What's going on? Would birth control be a good idea?
Signed: Period Woes-10 Days Long, Cramps & Lump Behind Ears
Dear Period Woes-10 Days Long, Cramps & Lump Behind Ears,
You didn't mention how old you are, but it can take a long time for a woman's cycle to become regular. It's perfectly normal for it to be regular for as long as five years, and even after that, anyone's cycle can be thrown off by changes in diet, exercise, illness, stress, or a variety of other factors. However, we are concerned about the symptoms you have been experiencing - while many women get cramps and become depressed during their period, it sounds like these symptoms are rather pronounced and prolonged for you. In addition, ten days is a long time for you to be bleeding. As for the lumps behind your ears, we cannot diagnose those over the Internet.
Considering the number and the nature of the concerns you have, FX suggests you consult a medical professional. He or she will be able to assess your overall health, and recommend ways to make your cycle a little more manageable. If you do not have a doctor and you live in northern New Jersey, please call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971.6475. If you live elsewhere, get in touch with your local adolescent health center or clinic. If you have never had a gynecological exam, read the answer to Sexually Active and Wondering About a GYN to learn more.
The birth control pill is often prescribed in order to regulate a woman's menstrual cycle and alleviate some of the symptoms you've mentioned, but this is something you should discuss with your doctor. If you and your doctor do decide that the pill is appropriate, FX wants to remind you that the pill only protects you against pregnancy, not against sexually transmitted diseases. So if you are sexually active, even if you do go on the pill, it's still important for you to practice safer sex.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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