Dear Really worried in Florida,

There may or may not be something wrong. You need to see a women's health care provider and speak with her/him about your situation. What you have described could be related to such things as fibroids, polyps, endometriosis, or possibly abnormal cervical cell growth. On the other hand, it is possible that there is no medical problem at all. Your seventeen year old body is still being subjected to hormonal changes which can cause your periods not to be "normal," meaning you will not cycle regularly and have predictable periods for a while.

But, because it sounds like your periods were more predictable at one point, and you are in pain, see a health care provider -- not only for diagnosis (and treatment, if necessary), but for peace of mind, too. This is a perfect time for you to start going to a gynecologist or other women's health care provider. If there's a problem, you will be able to take care of it. If there is no problem, you'll simply have your first gyn exam and begin a relationship with a women's health care provider. For more information, read the Classic Alice!, Time to get a gyn exam?.

When you're with your provider, ask questions about the exam and procedures. You can also ask her/him to describe the range of what is considered "normal" and what you need to be concerned about, or reassured about, in terms of your periods.