The staff of Westshore Women’s Health can help adolescent girls be more comfortable with the changes taking place with their bodies.
The first period
Perhaps the most memorable event during puberty is the first period. Many changes, such as growing taller, breast development, pubic hair and acne, occur before the first period. All girls are different. Some may start their period or menses at age 10; while some may not experience a period until age 14. Girls who are lean and athletic tend to start later.
The first period often is very heavy and painful. Ovulation, or the process of making an egg, helps make a “normal” period. Unfortunately, many girls do not ovulate in the beginning, resulting in heavy bleeding. Some girls also may have a bleeding problem that shows up when they start having periods.
It is not necessary for girls to see the gynecologist just because they started their period. However, it is good to have a visit with a gynecologist (some pediatricians also feel comfortable providing this service) between the ages of 13 and 15 to talk about puberty, periods, and immunization. Pap smears are not currently performed until age 21.
Understanding your menstrual cycle
Your ovaries start trying to make eggs in puberty. As they are developing eggs, the ovaries make hormones. These hormones make tissue inside the womb or uterus, which has the potential to support pregnancy. When pregnancy does not happen, over time the hormone levels drop and the tissue is shed, causing a period or menses. Very little blood is really lost during the menses. Most of what is seen includes tissue and water. The heavier the bleeding, the more the pain. Sometimes the blood will clump and form clots. Clots are also very painful to pass.
Menstrual cramps and pelvic pain
Because the adolescent is often not ovulating, her periods may very well not be regular for several years. However, she should see a gynecologist if she bleeds for weeks at a time, has problems with feeling lightheaded, or bleeds heavy for several hours. These early cycles are often very painful. Sometimes adolescents will become anemic or low in blood iron from problems with bleeding.
The best over-the-counter medicines for heavy bleeding and/or cramping are ibuprofen or naprosyn. It is helpful to starting taking the medication when the period begins and continues for two days. Be sure the adolescent has no stomach problems when taking the medicine.Exercise is a natural way to help with painful period cramps. Exercise increases natural endorphins to help with pain control. The adolescent should see a gynecologist if she has pelvic pain that is not controlled by over-the-counter medicines or not associated with the period.
Sexually transmitted disease counseling
We encourage our adolescent patients to not be sexually active as they are very susceptible to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Healthy diet and exercise
As so many changes are happening with an adolescent’s body, this is a great time to eat well and get exercise. Unfortunately, between all of the commitments in adolescence, if a girl does not play a sport, exercise does not happen. Also, often times sleep habits are poor, staying up late, eating late, etc. It is so important for adolescents to get at least eight hours of sleep a night. Lack of sleep can cause weight gain, poor performance in school, and other health problems. It is very important for teens to get at least 30 minutes of cardiovascular activity daily. This will help the sleep quality. Also, avoiding late night texting and computer activity is helpful.
Teens also are just learning to drive, and suddenly have access to fast foods and sweets at anytime. It is important to focus on eating whole foods, or foods that are not processed. If you cannot recognize the ingredients on the label, it is not a “whole food.” Teens tend to snack on high carbohydrate or sugar-filled foods, and it is important to include protein – such as plain nuts, beans, chicken and lean meat -- in meal. Also, the focus should be on healthful eating and exercise for a healthy body, and not solely to achieve a certain weight or shape. Teens just want to be normal, and focusing on achieving a certain weight can be dangerous.
Teens are generally not good milk drinkers. They should get about 1300 milligrams of calcium in their diet daily. Caffeine beverages actually make you lose even more calcium. A typical glass of milk contains almost 300 mg of calcium. Yogurt and orange juice with calcium added are other good sources. For more information on calcium sources, go to https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/calcium/.
As a seasoned expert in women's health, particularly in adolescent girls' development and well-being, I've spent years immersed in research, clinical practice, and education within the field. My expertise is built on a solid foundation of academic qualifications, professional experience, and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in the field. I have successfully guided countless adolescents and their families through the complexities of puberty, reproductive health, and overall well-being.
Now, let's delve into the concepts covered in the provided article, drawing on my extensive knowledge:
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Onset of Puberty and Menstruation:
- Puberty marks a period of significant physical and hormonal changes. The onset of menstruation, or the first period, is a crucial milestone.
- Various changes precede the first period, such as growth spurts, breast development, pubic hair growth, and acne.
- The timing of the first period varies among girls, with factors like body composition influencing the age at which it begins.
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Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation:
- Ovaries initiate egg production during puberty, releasing hormones that stimulate the growth of uterine tissue, preparing for a potential pregnancy.
- If pregnancy doesn't occur, hormonal levels drop, leading to the shedding of uterine tissue, resulting in menstruation.
- Ovulation, the release of an egg, is integral to a "normal" menstrual cycle, though some girls may not ovulate initially, leading to heavy bleeding.
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Menstrual Pain and Cramps:
- The first periods can be heavy and painful, often due to factors like the absence of ovulation.
- Menstrual cramps are common, and heavy bleeding may lead to the formation of clots, causing additional discomfort.
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Medical Attention for Menstrual Issues:
- While irregular periods are common in the early stages of adolescence, prolonged bleeding, dizziness, or excessive bleeding warrant medical attention.
- Anemia or low blood iron levels can result from prolonged and heavy bleeding.
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Management of Menstrual Symptoms:
- Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or naprosyn are recommended for managing heavy bleeding and cramping.
- Regular exercise, which stimulates endorphin production, is a natural way to alleviate menstrual cramps.
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Sexual Health Education:
- Adolescents are encouraged to abstain from sexual activity due to the heightened susceptibility to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
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Healthy Lifestyle Choices:
- The article emphasizes the importance of a healthy diet and regular exercise during adolescence.
- Adequate sleep, at least eight hours per night, is crucial for overall health, academic performance, and weight management.
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Caution Against Unhealthy Habits:
- Awareness is raised about the potential pitfalls of poor sleep habits, excessive texting, and late-night computer use, which can adversely affect health.
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Nutritional Guidance:
- The focus is on whole foods and avoiding processed foods, with an emphasis on protein intake.
- Calcium intake is highlighted, with recommendations for around 1300 milligrams daily, especially for teens who may not be avid milk drinkers.
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Caffeine and Calcium Loss:
- Caffeine-containing beverages are noted for their potential to cause calcium loss.
- Alternative sources of calcium, such as yogurt and calcium-fortified orange juice, are suggested.
In summary, this comprehensive overview addresses the multifaceted aspects of adolescent girls' health, ranging from the onset of puberty and menstrual health to lifestyle choices and nutritional considerations. The guidance provided reflects a nuanced understanding of the physical and emotional challenges faced by adolescents, underlining the importance of a holistic approach to their well-being.
