Understanding Persistent Spotting in Teenagers: Causes & Solutions

Question
I have a 16 year old who has had spotting for three weeks. She said that she missed her last period but doesn't know the date. What could be causing this? She is not sexually active.

Answer
If your daughter is not sexually active, abnormal uterine bleeding is usually due to "anovulatory" cycles. There may be no bleeding at all, or there may be bleeding for long periods of time. It is due to a hormonal imbalance and is treated with progesterone supplementation (Provera 10mg twice a day for 5 days). It is easily cured.