IRREGULAR PERIOD

Dear Jellybean,

I am 13. I have started my period and all. But I haven’t got it since over the summer! And I know for a FACT that i am not pregnant!! So why haven’t i gotten it? Is there any thing i can do to get a more regular cycle? Thanks so much!
-Confused!

Dear Confused,

You're in good company. The "typical" period cycle is every 28 days, which works out to be about once a month. However, during the first few years of getting a period, it rarely comes exactly according to schedule. Some girls get their period regularly for two months, then not at all for two months, and so on. So not getting your period over the summer is not so unusual. In fact, it's pretty normal.

There's really nothing you can do to make your cycle more regular. Stress can delay your period. So can undereating and/or lack of exercise. (And of course, if you are sexually active, a delayed period may mean pregnancy). But sadly, it does not work the other way - eating well and exercising is great for your overall health, but it won't do a thing to make your period arrive more regularly.

Since you never know when your period might come, do be prepared at all times! There's nothing worse than realizing your period has started, you have no pads/tampons, and there's no dispenser (or friend with a well-stocked purse) in sight. So make a habit of stashing "supplies" in your locker, your purse, your backpack, etc. in case your period arrives unexpectedly.

If you're still concerned about your cycle, or have more questions about your period, do visit your family doctor. You can never be too well-informed about your own body, and your doctor can check your health and reassure you that everything is fine with your body.