Genital tract defects are structural problems that can cause an absence of menstruation or make it difficult for the menstrual blood to exit the vagina.
The most common female genital tract defect is an imperforate hymen, which is a hymen with no opening that closes off the vagina and does not allow blood to leave it during a period. The pituitary gland releases the hormones that control the menstrual cycle. Issues with the pituitary gland, including those below, may lead to amenorrhea:. Radiation therapy may also affect cells in the pituitary gland and cause amenorrhea. People who miss three periods in a row but are not pregnant or likely to be entering menopause should see a doctor.
This is especially important if they are experiencing additional symptoms. A doctor will recommend the best course of treatment for amenorrhea after diagnosing its underlying cause. Primary amenorrhea is often due to late puberty , which usually resolves over time.
However, a doctor can help determine if there is another underlying cause for periods not beginning. If a hormonal imbalance is responsible, the doctor may prescribe hormonal therapy. If a person has amenorrhea due to rapid weight gain, the doctor is likely to recommend a calorie-controlled diet and exercise.
In cases where amenorrhea develops due to a structural problem, surgery and an individualized treatment plan may be necessary.
Most causes of absence of menstruation are treatable. Following the treatment plan that a doctor recommends can help many people with amenorrhea regain a regular menstrual cycle. While occasional changes in the menstrual cycle are not unusual, frequently experiencing two periods in a month may indicate an underlying medical…. Periods start when girls are 12 or 14 or as young as 8 or up to 16 years old. They continue until the menopause in midlife, and all women experience…. For many, it can be hard to distinguish between spotting and periods.
Spotting is quite common and is usually no cause for concern. It may just…. What causes an absence of menstruation? Medically reviewed by Holly Ernst, P.
What is amenorrhea? Causes When to see a doctor Treatment Outlook Amenorrhea means an absence of menstruation. Pituitary problems or an underactive thyroid can lead to a hormone imbalance, and this can result in menstrual problems.
Amenorrhea is a symptom, not an illness. The doctor will aim to find out why there is no menstruation. If an individual has not started menstruating by the age of 16 years, a doctor may ask about their family history and carry out a number of tests. 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.
Lifestyle factors : If the person has been exercising excessively, a change of exercise plan or diet may help to stabilize the monthly cycle. 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. 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.
Menstruation can stop for a number of reasons. It does not necessarily mean that a person is infertile and can never conceive. If regular periods cease for 3 months or more, or if irregular periods stop for at least 6 months, the individual should seek medical advice. If you are underweight or overweight, talk to your doctor about how to find a balance. Once you begin to menstruate, keep track of your periods each month. This can help identify amenorrhea early on and aid in your diagnosis and treatment.
It also is good practice if you try to become pregnant in the future. Treatment options for amenorrhea vary based on the cause. You may need to make lifestyle changes, such as diet, activity, and stress. Certain hormonal medicines and birth control pills can help trigger a period. Others can help trigger ovulation, such as for PCOS. Hormone therapy may be used to balance out your hormones.
For most women, their monthly periods return following treatment. In some cases, your related health problem may mean you never have a period. Depending on your underlying cause, you may struggle with fertility. This article was contributed by: familydoctor. This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject. Zika is a virus caused by a bite from the Aedes mosquito.
It is contagious and increases the risk…. If your pregnancy is unexpected, you may be feeling scared or confused about what to do. It is important…. Visit The Symptom Checker. Read More. Abnormal Uterine Bleeding. Vaginal Discharge. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Alcohol Abuse. Home Diseases and Conditions Amenorrhea. Table of Contents. What is amenorrhea? Symptoms of amenorrhea. Related symptoms can include: Headache. Vision changes.
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