Amenorrhea- Absence / Delayed Start To Periods.

Girls usually get their first menstrual period when they’re 12 or 13. It’s a sign that your body is maturing, so that one day, if you want to, you should be able to have a baby.

A delay in starting periods isn’t usually anything to worry about. However, if you haven’t started your period by around 16, it’s a good idea to see your doctor to find out why it hasn’t happened yet.

Some people start their periods later than others, and that’s normal. But by age 15, 98% of teens have started their periods. When this transformative milestone unfolds much later than expected, it gives rise to a condition known as delayed menarche.

Delayed menarche refers to the delayed onset of the first menstrual period beyond the typical age range (12-14).  This may impact psychological well-being, as girls might face emotional challenges related to differences from their peers.

If you’re having delayed menarche, make an appointment to talk to your doctor. The reasons may be nothing to worry about. Or they could be a sign that you have a health condition that you need to treat.

Why would one experience a delayed onset of periods?

This delay can stem from various factors, including genetic predispositions, nutritional influences, chronic illness, stress, or intense physical activity. The causes are stipulated in detail below.

Family History

If your mom didn’t get their period until they were 15 or older, chances are that being a late bloomer runs in your family. That may especially be true if your aunts, grandmothers, and cousins also started menstruating only after they were well into high school. Girls tend to get their periods 2-3 years after their breasts start to develop and 6-12 months after they notice a mucus-like vaginal discharge in their underwear. All these milestones can happen later than average in some families, including yours. Still, your doctor may want to rule out other health problems.

Low Weight

If you weigh much less than normal, that can affect your hormone levels and prevent you from getting your period. If your weight is 10% less than what’s healthy for your height, it can keep your hormones from working right and actually stop your periods. This is why girls who have eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia may not start menstruating.

Extra Weight

If you’re obese, you may not have your first period at the usual time, either. To set a monthly menstrual cycle, your body needs a normal range of fat levels. Too much or too little body fat can lead to delayed periods. Obesity for someone 5 feet, 2 inches tall starts at 155 pounds.

Too Much Exercise

Pushing your body too hard physically also can make your first period come late. This can happen with ballet dancers, runners, or other athletes. Intense workouts burn lots of calories and can leave very little body fat. Mix that with competitive pressure, and they can postpone your period until much later.

Too Much Stress

It can be hard on your body in many ways, and one possible effect is to delay your first period. This may happen if you’re stressed all the time, no matter the trigger.

Medications

Certain types of drugs can keep you from having a period, including those used to treat cancer, high blood pressure, allergies, and depression. If you’re taking any of them, your doctor may have explained that this could happen.

Physical Problems

Very rarely, you may not be able to have periods because of the shape or other issues with your vagina, ovaries, fallopian tubes, or uterus. You might have extra tissue that covers an opening, a blockage, or physical issues. Your doctor can find out if these problems may be the reason.

Effects of Delayed Menarche:

• Delayed Puberty Milestones: Beyond menarche, other puberty-related changes such as breast development and pubic hair growth may also be delayed.
• Psychological Impact: Girls experiencing delayed menarche may face emotional challenges due to perceived differences from peers.
• Bone Health Considerations: It may affect bone density, emphasizing the importance of addressing nutritional and hormonal factors.

Future Risks and Considerations:

• Fertility Concerns: It does not necessarily indicate infertility, but it may warrant attention if associated with other reproductive health issues.
• Bone Health: Girls with delayed onset of periods may have a shorter window for achieving peak bone density, influencing long-term bone health.
• Psychosocial Factors: The emotional impact of delayed menarche may extend into adulthood, emphasizing the importance of supportive environments.

Medical Evaluation and Intervention:

• Hormonal Assessments: In some cases, hormonal evaluations may be conducted to understand underlying causes.
• Nutritional Guidance: Addressing nutritional deficiencies and promoting a balanced diet may support hormonal balance.
• Psychological Support: Girls experiencing emotional challenges related to it may benefit from psychological support.