QuestionHi, I'm 20 years old and just had a baby in Nov. of 2007. Since then I have not had any periods but, I get random cramps the last a few hours. I have no job and Medicaid wont help can you????
AnswerDear Mandy,
If you are still breastfeeding, this can be a reason for your menstrual periods not returning. There are many various causes for amenorrhea (absence of periods) - pregnancy being just one. Others can be:
-Hormonal imbalances, which cause fluctuating levels of the hormones needed to support menstruation
-Emotional or physical stress / Depression
-Rapid weight loss or gain
-Change in diet
-Low body weight
-Obesity
-Frequent or strenuous exercise
-Cysts or tumors in the ovaries
-Thyroid or Pituitary dysfunction
-Certain medications or drug use
-Menopause OR Premature ovarian failure (menopause before age 40)
-Occasionally stopping birth control pills
The general recommendation is that if you miss three consecutive periods and pregnancy is not the reason, you should see your doctor so that a cause can be determined. Medicaid should be allowing you to see your doctor for a physical exam - including a Pap smear- at least once per year, if not for diagnosis of the cause of the amenorrhea itself.
I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.
Brenda
