Amenorrhea, a condition that prevents women from menstruating

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Definition

What is amenorrhea?

Amenorrhea or amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation. Menstruation is a monthly cycle in women. Every woman's period is different because of differences in hormones and how their genitals or pelvis are formed. There are 2 types of amenorrhea:

• Primary amenorrhea occurs when a girl has never had her period but has gone through other changes at puberty and is over 15 years of age
• Secondary amenorrhea means no menstruation for more than three cycles or 6 months

After a proper evaluation from a doctor, a diagnosis can be determined.

How common is amenorrhea?

Amenorrhea is a common condition that occurs and usually indicates an imbalance in bodily functions. This non-menstrual condition most often affects women who are pregnant. During pregnancy the hormones are regulated to stop ovulation and menstruation. Primary amenorrhea occurs in girls who are over 15 years of age while secondary amenorrhea usually occurs in women with older age.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of amenorrhea?

The most common sign of amenorrhea is the absence of abnormal menstrual periods. Some of the signs and symptoms that can accompany a menstrual period include:

• Discharge from the nipple
• Hair loss
• Headache
• Vision changes
• Excessive facial hair
• Pelvic pain
• Acne

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

Consult your doctor if you have missed at least three menstrual periods in a row, or if you haven't had menstrual periods by age 15.

If you have signs or symptoms above or other questions, please consult your doctor.

Cause

What causes amenorrhea?

This non-menstrual condition can be caused by several causes, such as:

• Birth defects: underdeveloped reproductive organs including narrowing or blockage of the cervix (cervix), absence of a uterus or vagina, and a vagina that is divided into 2 parts (vaginal lining)
• Natural hormonal changes: amenorrhea will occur during pregnancy, breastfeeding and menopause
• Drug-induced: Medications can cause amenorrhea. These drugs include contraceptives, antipsychotics, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, cancer chemotherapy drugs and some allergy medications
• Low body weight: Weight that is 10% lower than normal body weight can cause hormonal imbalances that can stop ovulation. Several conditions such as bulimia and anorexia can cause this to occur
• Stress: Stress can change the function of the hypothalamus, which is the area that controls the menstrual cycle. This is usually temporary and the menstrual cycle will return when the stress is reduced
• Excessive exercise: Physical activity, such as ballet, which requires intense training can disrupt the menstrual cycle
• Disorders that cause hormonal imbalances: These include conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, thyroid disorders, pituitary tumors or early menopause.
• Causes of this condition can include problems with the reproductive organs or glands that help regulate hormone levels. Amenorrhea treatment can be treated by the underlying cause itself.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for amenorrhea?

There are many risk factors that can cause you to miss your period or experience menorrhea, namely:

• Family history: If any woman in your family has had amenorrhea, it's likely that you could have the same problem
• Eating disorders: If you have problems such as anorexia or bulimia, you have a higher risk of developing amenorrhea
• Athletic training: high-intensity training can increase the risk of amenorrhea

Medicines & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for amenorrhea?

Treatment depends on the cause of the missing menstrual period. This primary non-menstrual condition can be caused by birth defects and may require medication in the form of hormones, surgery, or both.

In some cases, a drug called medroxyprogesterone and estrogen replacement will help return the menstrual period in most women.

Other drugs may be used if women with adult-onset adrenal hyperplasia, early ovarian failure, and hypothyroidism. Women with anatomical abnormalities may require surgery.

In women who are not menstruating due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), treatment that can be done includes weight loss with diet and exercise. Medicines such as metformin can also be given.

Women who experience a menstrual condition that results from hereditary problems can see a genetic specialist for additional evaluation and treatment.

What are the usual tests for amenorrhea

Your doctor may order tests such as the following to make a diagnosis:

• Ask about medical history, physical examination, and laboratory examinations
• Health care providers may also use x-rays or ultrasounds to determine the reasons why a woman is not having these periods
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain may be performed if an abnormality of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus is suspected
• Computer tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis is another test that is done if an abnormality of the uterus or ovaries is suspected

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat amenorrhea?

Here are lifestyle and home remedies that can help you deal with this condition of absent menstruation:

• Check with your doctor or specialist regularly
• Take the medication or change the dosage according to the correct instructions from your doctor
• Do not use over-the-counter medicines, herbal products, or other medicines without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
• Maintain a healthy body weight and have a balanced diet
• Don't overexert yourself or engage in strenuous exercise routines

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.

Complications

What are the complications of amenorrhea?

Complications with this condition can include:

• Non-suburan If you are not ovulating and having periods, you cannot get pregnant.
• Osteoporosis. If amenorrhea occurs and is caused by low estrogen levels, you may also be at risk for osteoporosis or weakening of your body's bones.