Painful Periods Aren't Normal

The menstrual cycle is as regular as clockwork, or at least it should be. But for many adolescent patients, what should be a manageable monthly event turns into a full-blown disruptor of school, sports, sleep and sanity. As we explore the world of adolescent gynecology, we take a closer look at the intricate details: how cramps can hide endometriosis and ‘normal’ isn’t always what it seems. These symptoms are not just part of puberty. These are signals that deserve attention, validation, and thorough evaluation.  

This episode was recorded live on the exhibit floor at the 2025 Pediatric Academic Societies Conference in Honolulu, Hawaii. Joining us for this episode is Elizabeth Alderman, MD, Chief of the Division of Adolescent Medicine at The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore. She is also a professor at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. 

In this episode our expert discusses: 

• First-line treatments for painful periods in adolescents 
• Red flags in menstrual history that could lead to further concerns 
• Primary care diagnostic steps before referring to gynecology 
• How to create a comfortable environment for discussing these uncomfortable topics for adolescents