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Amenorrhea
Moderate
Amenorrhea means the absence of menstrual periods. It may be primary, when menstruation has not started by the expected age, or secondary, when previously occurring periods stop for several months. Pregnancy is a common cause of secondary amenorrhea, while other causes include hormonal disorders, significant changes in weight or exercise, stress, medications, and conditions affecting the reproductive organs or endocrine system.
Body System
Female Reproductive System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Amenorrhea should be medically assessed when periods stop unexpectedly or remain absent. Pregnancy should be considered when relevant, and other hormonal, reproductive, nutritional, or medical causes may need evaluation. Seek prompt care for severe pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, fainting, severe weakness, or other rapidly developing symptoms.
Symptoms
1
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Amenorrhea means the absence of menstrual periods. It may be primary, when menstruation has not started by the expected age, or secondary, when previously occurring periods stop for several months. Pregnancy is a common cause of secondary amenorrhea, while other causes include hormonal disorders, significant changes in weight or exercise, stress, medications, and conditions affecting the reproductive organs or endocrine system.
Symptoms 1
Itching
Causes 1
Amenorrhea can result from pregnancy, hormonal changes, disorders of the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, ovarian dysfunction, thyroid disease, and other endocrine conditions. Significant weight loss, very low body fat, excessive exercise, severe stress, and some medications can suppress menstrual function. Structural abnormalities of the reproductive tract can also cause absent periods.
Hormonal Imbalance
Risk Factors
Risk factors include pregnancy, significant weight loss or gain, excessive physical exercise, severe psychological stress, eating disorders, hormonal disorders, certain medications, and conditions affecting the ovaries, pituitary gland, thyroid, or reproductive tract. The likelihood and causes vary according to age and reproductive stage.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Evaluation includes a menstrual and reproductive history, physical examination, and pregnancy testing when appropriate. Blood tests may assess thyroid function, prolactin, ovarian hormones, or other endocrine causes. Pelvic ultrasound can evaluate the uterus and ovaries, while additional imaging or specialized testing may be required when a pituitary, ovarian, or structural disorder is suspected.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Amenorrhea caused by pregnancy is normal, but other forms may signal an underlying condition
Maintaining adequate nutrition, avoiding excessive exercise, managing significant stress, and seeking medical evaluation for persistent absence of periods can help identify and address potentially preventable contributors
People taking medicines that affect menstrual function should discuss concerns with a healthcare professional
Prevention Guidance
Amenorrhea caused by pregnancy is normal, but other forms may signal an underlying condition. Maintaining adequate nutrition, avoiding excessive exercise, managing significant stress, and seeking medical evaluation for persistent absence of periods can help identify and address potentially preventable contributors. People taking medicines that affect menstrual function should discuss concerns with a healthcare professional.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Balanced Diet
Supports hormonal balance.
Healthy Fats
Important for hormone production.
Protein Rich Foods
Support reproductive health.
Foods to Avoid
Crash Dieting
May worsen hormonal imbalance.
Excess Processed Foods
May negatively affect health.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Amenorrhea is the absence of menstrual periods.
Hormonal imbalance and pregnancy are common causes.
Yes, severe stress may contribute.
Hormone tests and medical evaluation are used.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.