Will I be able to have kids?

Dear Anne

I'm 14 and had my first period nearly two years ago. I've only had 3 periods since then. I have looked it up on the internet and it says that I could either have a vitamin deficiency or an ovary problem. I'm worried in case I can't have children. Please can you help me? Thank you. K

Dear K

The problem with internet diagnosis is that most people don't have the medical knowledge to know whether it fits or there's some other factor.

Most commonly scanty or rare periods are due to being unhealthily underweight, though a poor diet could contribute. Stress is another possibility. Or you could just be one of those women whose periods are very irregular, but who can still get pregnant. However, a fair proportion of girls, perhaps including you, just take three years or so to establish their pattern. It's possible that you do have some other rare problem or something that could fairly readily be fixed with appropriate medication though so it's important for you to talk to your doctor or at least to your school nurse. Do it soon so you won't keep yourself worrying, probably needlessly. These people are there to talk about our bodies and won't be embarrassed. Good luck.