Keeping track of cycle before dating - Nishmat Yoatzot Halacha

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Keeping track of cycle before dating

February 6, 2012

Question

Hi- Thanks in advance for answering my question.

I am 19 years old and would like to begin dating for marriage in the near future. However, I am concerned being that I haven’t kept a record of my menstrual cycle. I began menstruating only a few years ago and I am not sure that I have a regular cycle yet being that I haven’t kept track. When I do become engaged be’ezrat Hashem will I have trouble scheduling my wedding without this information? Should I wait until I have kept track for a bit of time before dating?

Thanks again!

Answer

We appreciate your concern.

Dating and marriage are not usually instant, and even two to three months may give you enough information to plan around. Additionally, there are medical means of manipulating the cycle when necessary prior to a wedding. So we do not think this concern need delay your beginning to date.

All that being said, whether or not you are currently dating, if you find that you are not getting a period approximately once per month (every 24-35 days), then we suggest that you see a physician for a check up.

Please write back with any further questions.