-Penny

When you’re first starting your period, it’s normal for it to be irregular. However, after a while it should settle down to a normal cycle, which is usually about 21-35 days. This means that, while some girls really do have their period once a month, you could get yours as much as once every three weeks. Every girl’s cycle is different, so having a shorter cycle is no reason to worry!

Periods are a pain, but they’re a necessary pain. Every girl goes through this. Birth control pills can work to make your periods more regular, but there’s a reason your mom is reluctant to let you take them. Not only are there some side effects (weight gain, moodiness and headaches), but most girls think going on birth control is an open invitation to engage in bad behaviors. There isn’t anything wrong with birth control, but I think your mom is right—it’s probably best to wait.

So what can you do right now to help with your period problem? Go to your doctor. Tell her how much it bugs you, and ask if there are any other options besides birth control to help space out your periods. If you find that aren’t many likely options, it’s time to take a deep breath, accept it, and make sure you have plenty of fruit on hand every 18-25 days to satisfy your sweet-cravings!

Good Luck!
Lisa B.