Q
My daughter is 11 years old and has already started having her period. It's been 6 months and her periods have been irregular, ranging from 2 to 6 weeks in between. I know that this is common in the beginning. I want my daughter to see a doctor, but my wife thinks it will be too traumatic for her at this young age. I feel that a doctor could put her on some sort of birth control pill. It would be easier for my daughter since she will know when she will be getting her period. Is she too young to be on the Pill?
A
As you mention, it is very common for girls to have irregular periods when they first start. This irregularity can continue for the first year and a half, and does not indicate that there is anything wrong. I would strongly resist the temptation to "treat" it with birth control pills, just for convenience. While the hormones in the pills do help to regulate the cycle, they also can have significant side effects. They should only be used to manage girls who truly have an abnormality (things such as severe pain, ovarian cysts, prolonged periods that lasts weeks instead of days, etc.).
I do think it would make sense to schedule a visit with your daughter's physician or healthcare provider. It would be helpful to have her see her doctor to make sure that she is otherwise healthy. Things such as abnormal weight (too high or too low), stress, thyroid problems, or other hormonal problems can cause the periods to be irregular, but they usually cause other symptoms as well. If your daughter is otherwise well, it is extremely unlikely that there is an underlying problem causing the irregular periods. Her doctor can answer any questions or concerns, and help to educate your family about various aspects of the menstrual cycle.
As for your wife's concern of a doctor's visit being traumatic, I would point out that at this age an examination usually does not include a pelvic or internal examination. The doctor will do a general physical examination, and look at the breasts and vaginal area, but will not do a speculum or manual exam. That would only be done if there were some concern about an anatomical problem or an infection.
