Amenorrhea
What is Amenorrhea ?
Amenorrhea (uh-men-o-REE-uh) is the absence of menstruation, often defined as missing one or more menstrual periods. Primary amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstruation in someone who has not had a period by age 15. The most common causes of primary amenorrhea relate to hormone levels, although anatomical problems also can cause amenorrhea.
Secondary amenorrhea refers to the absence of three or more periods in a row by someone who has had periods in the past. Pregnancy is the most common cause of secondary amenorrhea, although problems with hormones also can cause secondary amenorrhea. Treatment of amenorrhea depends on the underlying cause.
Symptoms
- Milky nipple discharge
- Hair loss
- Headache
- Excess facial hair
- Pelvic pain
- Acne
- Hot flashes
- Vaginal dryness
- Vision changes
- Changes in mood or energy levels
Cause
Amenorrhea can occur for a variety of reasons. Some are normal, while others may be a side effect of medication or a sign of a medical problem. During the normal course of your life, you may experience amenorrhea for natural reasons, such as Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, Menopause. Some people who take birth control pills (oral contraceptives) may not have periods. Even after stopping birth control pills, it may take some time before regular ovulation and menstruation return. Contraceptives that are injected or implanted also may cause amenorrhea, as can some types of intrauterine devices. Certain medications can cause menstrual periods to stop, including some types of Antipsychotics, Cancer chemotherapy, Antidepressants, Blood pressure drugs, Allergy medications. Sometimes lifestyle factors contribute to amenorrhea, for instance Low body weight, Excessive exercise, Stress. Many types of medical problems can cause hormonal imbalance, including Polycystic ovary syndrome, Thyroid malfunction, Pituitary tumor, Premature menopause. Problems with the sexual organs themselves also can cause amenorrhea. Examples include Uterine scarring, Lack of reproductive organs, Structural abnormality of the vagina.
Risk Factors
Factors that may increase your risk of amenorrhea include Family history. If other women in your family have experienced amenorrhea, you may have inherited a predisposition for the problem. Eating disorders. If you have an eating disorder, such as anorexia or bulimia, you are at higher risk of developing amenorrhea. Athletic training. Rigorous athletic training can increase your risk of amenorrhea. History of certain gynecologic procedures. If you’ve had a D&C, especially related to pregnancy, or a procedure known as loop electrodiathermy excision procedure (LEEP), your risk of developing amenorrhea is higher.
When to see a Doctor
Consult your doctor if you’ve missed at least three menstrual periods in a row, or if you’ve never had a menstrual period and you’re age 15 or older.