What is Amenorrhea?
Amenorrhea 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.
The most common cause of amenorrhea is pregnancy. Other causes of amenorrhea include problems with the reproductive organs or with the glands that help regulate hormone levels. Treatment of the underlying condition often resolves amenorrhea.
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
Amenorrhea can occur for a variety of reasons. Some are normal during the course of a woman's life, while others may be a side effect of medication or a sign of a medical problem.
Natural amenorrhea:
- Pregnancy
- Breast-feeding
- Menopause
Some women who take birth control pills may not have periods. Certain medications can cause menstrual periods to stop.
Lifestyle factors
- Low body weight.
- Excessive exercise.
- Stress.
Hormonal imbalances and structural problems should also be considered.
Amenorrhea increases the risk of developing infertility and osteoporosis.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/amenorrhea/symptoms-causes/syc-20369299
