Menstrual Disorders in Adolescents: Review of Current Practice

Menstrual disorders are common in adolescent girls. Periods can be irregular, heavy and/or painful, especially in the first few years following menarche. Serious pathology is rare; however, menstrual dysfunction can have a significant effect on daily activities and result in school absence. There are many treatment options which are safe to use in adolescents, although the evidence for their use is extrapolated from adult data. We present a clinical review of the current practice, including management of girls with other medical problems and learning difficulties.