Journal of pediatric and adolescent gynecology
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J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol · Dec 2009
Questionnaire study on menstrual disorders in adolescent girls in Singapore.
Adolescence, the transitional phase of physical and mental development between childhood and adulthood, is characterized by immense hormonal changes. Owing to the immaturity of the hypo-thalamo-pituitary-ovarian axis, menstrual cycles tend to be rather irregular. This variability poses a dilemma for physicians treating these girls and may result in a delay in the diagnosis and treatment of underlying problems. The purpose of this study was to collect data on the characteristics of menstrual cycles in Singapore adolescents to determine the prevalence of menstrual abnormalities and the pattern of use of medical treatments for these abnormalities. ⋯ Menstrual problems among adolescent females are common and a significant source of morbidity in this population. However, adolescent girls are reluctant to seek medical treatment, leading to delay in diagnosis and treatment. Appropriate health education measures need to be put into place to prevent this trend.