Q My periods are all over the place. I went on contraception when I was 16 for heavy bleeding and then I stopped it because I was trying to get pregnant. I’ve had my son nine months ago, and now my periods are a problem all over again.

Janine, 28

A It sounds like you are suffering from something called dysfunctional uterine bleeding, where your periods are either very long or heavy. Although this is not due to any underlying disease, and could almost be seen as normal, nevertheless it can be disabling. Your options would be based upon whether you are contemplating pregnancy again in the near future or after more than a year.

If you are actively trying for a baby, then medications including tranexamic acid can be used to lessen the bleeding.

If you don’t want to become pregnant again for at least 12 months, the gold standard would be the Mirena coil, both for reducing the heaviness of bleeding and pain, as well as being an excellent contraceptive.

Q My baby boy’s foreskin doesn’t seem to come back. I only noticed it in the bath, and thought that it was different from his brother, who is now three years old.

Anonymous

A It can be normal for baby boys’ foreskins not to retract at first. The most important thing is not to try and force it, as this will cause a lot of pain and may even damage the delicate tissues. In many cases the situation will improve of its own, without needing anything doing. If you are concerned, it would be worthwhile getting him examined by your routine GP. A foreskin that doesn’t retract becomes a problem if the baby cannot pass urine or gets a urine infection, in which case they will be referred to a urologist (surgeon) to have a look at it.

If you have a question for Dr Zak, you can email him at askdoctorzak@gmail.com, see the website, doctorzak.co.uk or find him on Twitter @AskDoctorZak

Dr Uddin’s advice is provided in good faith and in accordance with currently accepted evidence. However, this content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always seek the advice of a GP, or other qualified health provider, regarding a medical condition.