This page provides answers to commonly asked questions about menstruation, including the onset, length of cycle, possible problems, and when to see a health care professional.
Review Date: December 20, 2012
Office on Women's Health
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a serious but uncommon infection caused by either Staphylococcus aureus bacteria or by streptococcus bacteria. Originally linked to the use of tampons, it is now also known to be associated with the diaphragm and other birth control methods.
Review Date: December 31, 2012
The Nemours Foundation
Amenorrhea — the absence of menstruation — can happen during puberty or later in life. Pregnancy may be your first thought if you miss a period, but there are many reasons why you might not be menstruating regularly.
Review Date: December 20, 2012
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
This page provides information about the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of chronic pelvic pain (CPP), including a list of things you can do to help your doctor diagnose and treat you.
Review Date: January 02, 2013
International Pelvic Pain Society
Most girls have to deal with PMS, cramps, or headaches around the time of their periods. Here are the facts on which period problems are common and normal — and which ones might indicate there's something else going on.
Review Date: December 20, 2012
The Nemours Foundation
The common name for fibroids is uterine fibroids, which are tumors or lumps made of muscle cells and other tissue that grow within the walls of the uterus. This document provides information about fibroids, including risk factors, symptoms, treatment options, and more.
Review Date: January 24, 2013
National Women's Health Network
If you have been diagnosed with a gynecological cancer, such as cervical, endometrial, uterine or ovarian cancer, use this search tool to locate a gynecologic oncologist in your area.
Review Date: January 24, 2013
Foundation for Women's Cancer
Search from more than 820 health centers nationwide for a nearby health center that provides high-quality, affordable sexual and reproductive health care for women, men, and teens.
Review Date: December 18, 2012
Planned Parenthood Federation of America
This overview discusses signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, when to seek medical advice, screening and diagnosis, complications, treatment and self-care of menstrual cramps.
Review Date: December 20, 2012
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
PID is the most common preventable cause of infertility in the United States. The scarring that results from inflammation and infection of the female reproductive organs can lead to infertility, tubal (ectopic) pregnancy, chronic pelvic pain, and more. Find out what you can do to prevent PID.
Review Date: June 12, 2012
NIH National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases – NIAID
While you are seeking effective treatment for vulvar pain, find coping measures to relieve symptoms and prevent further irritation.
Review Date: October 31, 2012
National Vulvodynia Association
There is no known cause for uterine fibroids. Nevertheless, age, race, lifestyle and genetics may well play a part in the overall scheme of your health and your own body's tendency to develop symptomatic uterine fibroids. Learn about the foods that have protective value against uterine fibroids and those to avoid.
Review Date: June 08, 2012
National Uterine Fibroids Foundation
If you have never had a gynecologic exam before, you may have questions about what will happen at your first visit. This pamphlet will explain what to expect during a pelvic exam, Pap Test, and more.
Review Date: January 24, 2013
American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
