Girl Talk: 5 Period Issues That Could Mean Something Is Wrong

Periods are totally normal, and you should never be embarrassed about getting yours! However, I’m sure of anyone who boasts about enjoying her periods. But it’s definitely true that some gals have it easier than others. Menstruation is something women just have to deal with. The bottom line is that your period should never keep you from doing the things you need to do. If it does, it’s time to consult your doctor: Don’t ignore these five issues—they could be symptoms of something more serious.

1. Your flow is super heavy. This could be a sign of a bleeding disorder, which obviously might be dangerous. If you soak through a tampon or pad once per hour for more than three hours, are passing blood clots, or bleed for more than eight days in a row, see your doctor right away. Other symptoms to watch for are being extremely tired or have a racing heart when you exert yourself.

2. You barely bleed at all. A period that is extremely light (or doesn’t come at all) could be a sign of a few different health problems. If you are an athlete and training hard—or you’re extremely underweight—your period may stop, and that’s really bad for your body down the line. If you find you are overweight and have acne or facial hair, you could have polycystic ovarian syndrome. Either way, go in for a checkup.

Related Article: The Most Embarrassing Period Moments And How To Deal With Them

3. You never know when it’s going to show up. During the first year of your period, some unpredictability is normal. After that though, things should even out: You should get your period every 21 to 45 days and it should last fewer than seven days. If you’re bouncing all over the calendar, it’s time to call in the pros.

4. It’s late—like, years late. If you’ve reached the age where most of your friends have started their periods and you haven’t, it may be a sign that something is not quite right. Real talk: Go see the doc if you’re 14 and have other signs of having gone through puberty, like breasts, or you are 16 and you don’t have any signs of puberty.

5. It hurts. A lot. Cramps and discomfort are par for the course. (You knew that, right?) But we’re talking about the kind of pain that keeps you from getting out of bed and home from school—and not in a fun, Revenge-marathon kind of way. If you are debilitated by your pain, or have severe cramping or nausea, it may be a sign of other health problems. Definitely get some time with the gynaecologist.