Adolescent menstrual disorders

Abstract

The adolescent years present a vulnerable period of time during which menstrual abnormalities may arise. These abnormalities may be related to the maturational processes of the neuroendocrine, gonadal, and anatomic components of the reproductive system. Adolescent menstrual disorders may be totally unrelated to these maturational changes or may occur after puberty is completed. Manifestation of pubertal and nonpubertal conditions is variable. Most patients with aberrations of puberty present with amenorrhea, and most adolescents with disorders unrelated to puberty present with abnormal bleeding. However, amenorrhea and bleeding problems may occur in both groups of patients. All adolescents with menstrual disorders must be treated aggressively because of the known association with these conditions and poor outcome. Morbidity, mortality, and reduced reproductive potential have been demonstrated for all such adolescents.