Hi BeingGirl Experts,

I am 17 years old and have been sexually active for a few months. Ever since I started my period at age 13, it has lasted for about 5–6 days. My past two cycles have only lasted for about 3 or 4 days and weren't as heavy. Should I worry about this, or is it common for a cycle to change like this? I mentioned that I was sexually active because I wasn't sure if that was causing this to happen. I was also curious what "spotting" was and what causes it.

Thanks,

Brook

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Dear Brook,

Engaging in sexual activity can cause a change in your menstrual cycle. Are you using reliable birth control? It is unusual, but not impossible to be pregnant and have a light menstrual flow that may look like a period.

If you are sexually active, you should be under the care of a gynecologist. Make an appointment and discuss your menstrual changes with your healthcare provider. You might also take a home pregnancy test to make sure you are not pregnant.

Some females spot during ovulation and this is normal. You ovulate 14 days BEFORE the onset of your next menstrual period. This is the most fertile time of your menstrual cycle. However, any bleeding in-between menstrual periods should be reported to your gynecologist.

Why not make an appointment for an exam, and get the changes in your period checked out?

Take care of you health,

Your BeingGirl Experts