Later and Worse

Hello,

My girlfriend is 16 years old. Over the past six months or so, I have noticed that her period is coming later and later each month. They have also been getting progressively worse. What could be the cause of this. We do have protected sex. Usually we will meet up once, maybe twice a month, and have sex 2-3 times during that time. Could that be effecting this? What should she do? I hate to see her in pain. She has found that Midol relieves the pain, but that doesn't explain why this is happening in the first place, and why they are coming later.

Thanks.

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
If I were your girlfriend's doctor, I would suggest that she consider trying oral contraceptive pills.  They work wonders for regulating periods, reducing the amount of blood loss, and ESPECIALLY for reducing the pain.  I didn't even mention the added benefit of contraception.
If there is a Planned Parenthood clinic in your area, your girlfriend could be evaluated by their providers -- they are quite good in most cases.
Hope this helps!
Dr B