Menstrual and Developmental Disorders

Diagnostics, treatment and a safe plan

Irregular periods, missing cycles, heavy bleeding, very painful menstruation or suspected developmental disorders (e.g., delayed puberty, absence of menstruation in adolescence) are common reasons for a gynecological visit. At Polyclinic Cito we approach it calmly and thoroughly: conversation, gynecological examination (adapted to the age and situation), ultrasound and laboratory workup when needed. The goal is to identify the cause and build an individualized plan that restores confidence and quality of life.

Page Overview

What are menstrual and developmental disorders?

Menstrual disorders are deviations in the rhythm, duration or intensity of bleeding, while developmental disorders are congenital or acquired changes in the development of the uterus, vagina or ovaries. They can be transient (e.g. in the first years after menarche) or a sign of a hormonal and/or gynaecological problem that needs a work-up. They occur in different periods of life but most often during puberty. 

Note: Irregular cycles in adolescence can be common, expected and transient, but there are situations when it is important to carry out a work-up - especially in cases of heavy bleeding, severe pain or the complete absence of menstruation.

The most common forms:

  • irregular cycles (too long, too short, “skipping”)
  • absence of menstruation (amenorrhoea)
  • heavy and/or prolonged bleeding
  • painful periods (dysmenorrhoea)
  • bleeding between periods

When to see a gynaecologist for menstrual and developmental complaints?

If you recognise some of the symptoms listed, a gynaecological examination can help to find the cause and provide an appropriate treatment plan. 

Menstrual symptoms

  • absence of menstruation (especially if it lasts longer than 3 months)
  • very irregular cycles or frequent missed periods (menstruation comes at intervals shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days)
  • heavy bleeding (changing pads/tampons very often, clots, weakness, bleeding lasting longer than 7 days)
  • bleeding that lasts a long time or recurs
  • painful periods that disrupt school/work or require frequent use of analgesics

Development and adolescence

  • absence of the first period by the expected age (primary amenorrhoea)
  • delayed signs of puberty relative to age 
  • pelvic pain with absence of menstruation (it is important to rule out anatomical obstructions
  • marked acne, increased hair growth, sudden weight changes (suspicion of a hormonal imbalance, e.g. PCOS)
A quick decision: If you have heavy bleeding with weakness, dizziness, fainting or severe pain that does not pass, get in touch immediately for a faster assessment.

What does the examination for menstrual and developmental complaints look like?

First we talk about the symptoms and the cycle, and then, if needed, we select tests in a targeted way - there are no unnecessary tests. 

1. Conversation and cycle

We talk about menstruation, i.e. when the first period was, the rhythm of the cycle, the duration and intensity of bleeding, whether you have pain or other complaints. We ask whether you take medicines and whether stress, weight changes and sport affect the cycle. 

2. Examination (adapted to age)

We perform the examination  gently and discreetly. In girls who have not yet had sexual intercourse, the examination is often limited or only an ultrasound over the abdomen is done. 

3. Ultrasound (if needed)

Ultrasound helps us to see the uterus and ovaries and to check whether cysts, a PCOS appearance, fibroids or the endometrium are present. 

4. Laboratory and plan

If needed, we do hormone tests or blood tests (e.g. checking iron in cases of heavy bleeding) and a treatment and monitoring plan.

When are hormone tests done? When the symptoms and history point to a hormonal cause (e.g. PCOS, thyroid, prolactin, etc.) or when the cycle is severely disturbed.
When is additional diagnostics needed? If bleeding persists, there are suspicious symptoms or an ultrasound finding, additional steps are sometimes recommended (depending on age and indication).

How to prepare for the examination?

  • Note the dates of your last 2–3 periods (if you can).
  • Note how long the bleeding lasts and how heavy it is (the number of pads/tampons).
  • Note the intensity of the pain and when it is worst (the first day, the whole period).
  • A list of medicines/supplements and chronic illnesses (if you have any).

If you suspect pregnancy - tell us (important in cases of absent menstruation).

Frequently asked questions before you arrive

  • Do I need to come on a particular day of the cycle?
    Not always - it depends on the symptoms and the planned tests.
  • May I come if I have my period?
    Yes, especially if you are coming because of heavy bleeding or an urgent complaint.
  • What if the patient is a minor?
    The examination and approach are adapted to age, with maximum discretion and explanation.
Note:For the examination of minors, accompaniment by a parent or legal guardian is mandatory.

What can you expect after the examination?

The aim of the examination is to find the cause of the complaints, i.e. for you to stop “guessing” and to get a clear cause and plan.

1
A clear assessment of the cause
Whether it is a transient disorder, a hormonal imbalance, anaemia or a gynaecological problem.
2
An individual treatment plan
From changes in habits and supplementation, through therapy to regulate the cycle, to treating the cause (depending on the diagnosis).
3
A monitoring plan
When the follow-up is, which symptoms to monitor and when to get in touch earlier.

In practice this means

  • an explanation of the findings "in plain language"
  • a plan for pain and heavy bleeding
  • a plan to regulate the cycle (when needed)
  • recommendations for anaemia and recovery (as indicated)
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Fastappointments without waiting

Why choose Cito Polyclinic for a cycle examination?

Problems with the cycle often create stress and uncertainty. It is important that the approach is calm, clear and expert and, most importantly, tailored to you. Our team of doctors provides: 

  • a discreet approach and an explanation of each step
  • a work-up adapted to age (adolescents and young women)
  • targeted tests without unnecessary steps
  • an individual plan and monitoring

Worried about your cycle or is it disrupting daily life?

Arrange an examination - you will receive a clear assessment and concrete steps.

Price of a gynaecological examination for cycle assessment

The price at Cito Polyclinic is 40€. Additional tests such as a Pap test, ultrasound, HPV typing, colposcopy or swabs are charged separately, as needed.

You can get the first available appointment straight away by phone on +385 21 457 800 or by sending a short message via the contact form.

Doctors

Our team of expert physicians

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about this service

What are the most common menstrual disorders (e.g., irregular, painful, heavy menstruation)?

Painful menstruation, cycles longer than 35 days, heavy bleeding and dysfunctional bleeding; causes include hormonal imbalance, coagulopathies and anatomical changes.

When is it necessary to seek help and which tests are performed?

For severe pain, heavy/prolonged bleeding, absence of menstruation >3 months or suspicion of anemia. Ultrasound, laboratory tests and age-appropriate hormones are performed.

How are disorders in puberty and adolescence treated?

Most often conservatively: education, NSAIDs, hormonal cycle regulation and iron supplementation; invasive methods are rare.

Do disorders affect fertility and long-term health?

They can, depending on the cause (PCOS, endometriosis, thyroid disorders). Timely diagnostics and therapy reduce the risks.

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