I haven't had my period for over a month and I'm really worried. I don't want to see a doctor because that is what my aunt suggested. I just need to know if ill be okay and if this is normal. It's happened to me before but I was younger and didn't worry much. But now that I know more about my body I'm scared. I do masturbate, does that effect your period?
Sam
Hi there,
Thank you for your letter. I can hear you are feeling really worried about not having had your period for over a month. It sounds like you've been able to talk to your aunt about this, as you've mentioned her suggesting you see a doctor. It can feel scary to think about talking to a doctor, especially when it is about something so personal. It can be good to remember that doctors would have spoken to lots of other people about similar situations. They are also medically trained and will be able to give you medical advice.
Usually girls will get their period once a month (every 28 days) - this is known as the menstrual cycle. The length of a cycle can sometimes be shorter or longer in length. When you first start your periods, it can be normal for them to happen at different times. This might have been what was happening when you were younger. It seems like something feels different this time and it's really making you feel worried. We have some information about Puberty for girls which you might find useful.
Masturbation is normal and very common amongst people of all ages. Masturbation does not usually cause any harm and should not stop your menstrual cycle, even if you masturbate often. It might help you to look at the NHS Choices page that gives more information on masturbation and periods.
Periods can be late or happen at different times for a number of reasons such as extreme weight loss or weight gain, too much exercise, feeling stressed, or pregnancy.
Its important to know this is not something you have to cope with on your own. You can talk about this openly with a ChildLine counsellor by calling 0800 1111 (free from any phone), having an online 1-2-1 chat or by sending an email. There is no need to feel embarrassed, the ChildLine counsellors are used to talking with young people about these issues.
If this is something you keep feeling worried about, then it might be good to talk to someone who is medically trained. A ChildLine counsellor could help you work out how to get help from a doctor.
Remember there is support available.
Take care,
Sam
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