Missed Period: Should I Be Worried?
At 18 years of age, standing 5 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 125 pounds, I consider myself to have a healthy weight. However, I’ve been without my menstrual cycle since early August, and now it’s already December. Notably, I have not experienced any discomfort while urinating or any itching issues. I've felt some mild cramping and had discharge, but there hasn’t been any bleeding. Currently, I'm in the midst of my Cross Country season, followed directly by marathon training, which I know can sometimes disrupt my cycle. Yet, this absence of my period has extended longer than what’s typical for me. I completed the marathon recently and have taken a break from running for about a week now. Is it advisable for me to consult a healthcare professional about this situation, or would it be better to wait a bit longer to see if my cycle returns on its own?
Answers (1)
12/13/2025, 7:10:35 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about a missed period, especially given your active lifestyle. Missing your menstrual cycle for several months can happen due to various reasons, including physical stress from intense training, hormonal imbalances, or other underlying health issues.
Explanation
At 18 years old, it’s common for cycles to fluctuate, particularly with significant physical exertion such as marathon training. However, since you haven’t had a period since early August, it’s important to take note of this change. Factors like body weight, stress, diet, and exercise levels can all impact your menstrual cycle. The mild cramping and discharge you’re experiencing could be related to changes in your hormonal balance due to your training, but prolonged absence of menstruation should be assessed to rule out other causes.
Next Steps
- Consider a Pregnancy Test: If there's any chance you could be pregnant, take a home pregnancy test to rule that out as a cause of your missed periods.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any other changes such as your weight, energy levels, or any new symptoms to share with a healthcare professional.
- Evaluate Exercise: Since you're training hard, consider moderating your exercise intensity to see if your cycle returns. Overtraining can affect your hormone levels.
- Nutritional Considerations: Ensure you’re eating a balanced diet that supports your activity level, with sufficient calories, nutrients, and hydration.
- Time Frame: If your period does not return within the next couple of months, or if you notice any concerning symptoms (like significant weight loss, fatigue, or mood changes), it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.
Taking these steps can help you understand your situation better. If nothing seems to improve, seeking a professional evaluation can provide clarity and appropriate treatment options if needed. You're doing great by paying attention to your body, so continue to do just that!
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