Despite erratic, heavy and painful periods being a common occurrence in the first three years after menarche, a leading Australian gynaecologist warns against doctors dismissing these symptoms as normal.

Speaking on a recent Healthed podcast, Dr Raewyn Teirney, Sydney gynaecologist and IVF expert said teenagers with period problems need to be taken seriously, even though, in most cases periods will become more regular, less painful and have a normal flow within a few years.