How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Irregular Periods

Audience: pediatric

Irregular periods are common during adolescence and can be caused by many factors including hormonal changes, stress, or underlying health conditions. A telemedicine visit can be a helpful first step to discuss symptoms, understand possible causes, and get guidance on next steps. During the visit, a healthcare provider will ask about menstrual patterns, symptoms, and overall health. Telemedicine is convenient and can provide timely advice, but some situations require in-person care. Preparing for your telemedicine visit by tracking your periods and symptoms can help make the appointment more effective. If you notice severe pain, very heavy bleeding, or signs of infection, seek in-person medical care promptly. Telemedicine can support ongoing management and education but is not a replacement for emergency or detailed physical exams.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Heavy bleeding soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe abdominal or pelvic pain that does not improve with pain relief — contact a healthcare provider urgently.
• Signs of infection such as fever, chills, foul-smelling discharge, or severe tenderness — seek prompt medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial discussion of menstrual irregularities and symptoms.
• Reviewing menstrual history and lifestyle factors.
• Providing education about menstrual health and common causes of irregular periods.
• Guidance on when to seek in-person care or testing.
• Follow-up on treatment plans or symptom management.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical pelvic examinations.
• Conducting immediate emergency interventions.
• Ordering or performing diagnostic imaging or laboratory tests directly during the visit.
• Diagnosing complex or rare underlying conditions without in-person assessment.

What are irregular periods?

Irregular periods mean your menstrual cycle varies in length, flow, or timing from month to month. This is common in young people as their bodies adjust to new hormone levels. Periods may be early, late, skipped, or heavier or lighter than usual.

When to use telemedicine for irregular periods

Telemedicine is useful for discussing your menstrual history, symptoms like pain or bleeding changes, and lifestyle factors. A provider can help decide if tests or treatments are needed. It is a good option if you cannot visit a clinic easily or want quick advice.

How to prepare for your telemedicine visit

Before your visit, keep a record of your periods for the past few months, including dates, flow amount, and symptoms like pain or mood changes. Write down any questions or concerns you have. Make sure you have a quiet place with good internet or phone connection for the call.

What to expect during the telemedicine visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your menstrual patterns, general health, medications, and any symptoms. They may suggest blood tests or an in-person exam if needed. They will provide advice on managing symptoms and when to seek further care.

When to seek in-person care

If you experience very heavy bleeding (soaking through pads or tampons quickly), severe pain, fever, fainting, or signs of infection, you should get urgent in-person medical care. Also, if symptoms worsen or do not improve with initial advice, an in-person visit is important.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Track your menstrual cycle dates, flow, and symptoms for the past 3 months.
• List any medications or supplements you are taking.
• Prepare a quiet, private space with a reliable internet or phone connection.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Have your identification and any previous medical records available, if possible.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any advice or treatment plans given by your healthcare provider.
• Schedule any recommended in-person tests or follow-up visits.
• Monitor your symptoms and menstrual patterns as advised.
• Seek immediate care if red flag symptoms develop.
• Contact your provider if symptoms worsen or do not improve.

FAQs

What causes irregular periods in adolescents?

Irregular periods in young people are often caused by the natural hormonal changes as the body matures. Other causes can include stress, significant weight changes, excessive exercise, or medical conditions like thyroid problems or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of irregular periods?

Telemedicine can help gather your medical history and symptoms and guide you about possible causes. However, some diagnoses require physical exams or tests that need to be done in person.

What should I do if my periods are very heavy or painful?

If you experience very heavy bleeding (such as soaking through pads or tampons every hour), severe pain, or other concerning symptoms like fever, seek in-person medical care promptly. These can be signs of a serious problem.

How can I track my periods effectively?

You can use a calendar, notebook, or a mobile app to record the start and end dates of your periods, flow amount, and any symptoms like pain or mood changes. This information helps your healthcare provider understand your menstrual health better.

Is it normal for periods to be irregular at first?

Yes, it is common for periods to be irregular during the first few years after they start. The body is adjusting hormonally, and cycles often become more regular over time.

Sources

1. Menstrual Cycle: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Irregular Menstrual Cycles in Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Menstrual Disorders — Mayo Clinic.
4. Adolescent Gynecology: Menstrual Disorders — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have urgent symptoms or concerns, please seek immediate medical attention from a healthcare professional.