No menses at 15

My second daughter recently turned 14 years of age without any sign of menstruation. This is very unlike her elder sister who saw her menses at 10 years of age. I am getting worried. What can I do?
Mrs Chukwu (by SMS)

• I want a baby at 50

Girls usually get their first menstrual period when they’re 12 or 13. It’s a sign that your body is maturing, so that one day, if you want to, you should be able to have a baby. By age 15, 98% of teens have started their periods. If at this age menses is still absent, it could be due to a family history of the same problem, daily activity or it could be nothing to worry about. Or they could be a sign that you have a health condition that you need to treat. If your daughter weighs much less than normal, that can affect her hormone levels and prevent her from getting her period. In addition, girls who are obese, may not have their first period at the usual time, either. Pushing your body too hard physically also can make the first period come late. This can happen with ballet dancers, runners, or other athletes. Intense workouts burn lots of calories and can leave very little body fat. In addition, too much stress can also delay the first period while some types of drugs ranging from those used to treat cancer, high blood pressure, allergies, and depression can also keep the menses away. Some health issues that can affect the vagina, ovaries, fallopian tubes, or uterus can also keep the menses away. For these reasons, it will be a good idea for your daughter to see a doctor for a proper check up.