The menstrual cycle has been recognized as a vital sign that gives information about the overall health of an adolescent or young adult female. Significant deviations from monthly cycles can signal disease or dysfunction. This review highlights the evidence based parameters for normal puberty, menarche, cyclicity, and amount of bleeding. The review addresses sources of information available online, noting inaccuracies that appear in web sites, even and especially those targeting adolescents. The review includes a call to action to provide accurate information about the menstrual cycle as a VITAL SIGN.
Keywords: adolescent menstruation; amenorrhea; menarche; puberty.
Copyright © 2014 North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.