Amenorrhea (uh-men-o-REE-uh) is the absence of menstruation — one or more missed menstrual periods. Women who have missed at least three menstrual periods in a row have amenorrhea, as do girls who haven't begun menstruation by age 15.
Symptoms:
The main sign of amenorrhea is the absence of menstrual periods. Depending on the cause of amenorrhea, you might experience other signs or symptoms along with the absence of periods, such as:
• Milky nipple discharge
• Hair loss
• Headache
• Vision changes
• Excess facial hair
• Pelvic pain
• Acne
Causes:
• The most common cause of amenorrhea is pregnancy.
• Other causes of amenorrhea include:
-Problems with the reproductive organs.
-Problems with the glands that help regulate hormone levels.
Treatment
Treatment of the underlying condition often resolves amenorrhea.
Primary Amenorrhea:
Treatment for primary amenorrhea may start with watchful waiting, depending on the person’s age and the result of the ovary function test. If there is a family history of late menstruation, periods may start in time. If there are genetic or physical problems that involve the reproductive organs, surgery may be necessary. This will not guarantee, however, that normal menstrual cycles will occur.
Secondary Amenorrhea:
• Lifestyle factors: If the person has been exercising excessively, a change of exercise plan or diet may help to stabilize the monthly cycle.
• Stress: If emotional or mental stress is a problem, counseling may help.
• Excessive weight loss: This can happen for different reasons. The person may need a professionally supervised weight gain regime. If an eating disorder is a possibility, treatment may include a weight-gain regime and counseling sessions with a psychiatrist and a nutritionist or dietitian. Some health conditions can cause weight loss. A doctor may test for these and offer treatment as appropriate.
• Underactive thyroid: If menstruation stops because of an underactive thyroid, the doctor may prescribe treatment with thyroxine, a thyroid hormone.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): The doctor will suggest appropriate treatment. If PCOS has led to excess weight, they may recommend a weight-loss diet.
• Premature ovary failure: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may cause menstruation to return.
• Menopause: Menopause starts around the age of 50 years, but sometimes it can start as early as 40 years. Family history can affect this. If menopause starts early, there is a higher risk of osteoporosis. The person may need treatment to prevent this complication.
