Amenorrhea (Absence of Menstruation)

Amenorrhea is the medical term for the absence of menstruation. There are two types of amenorrhea:

• Primary amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstruation in someone who has not had a period by age 15.

• Secondary amenorrhea refers to the absence of three or more periods in a row by someone who has had periods in the past.

What are the possible causes of amenorrhea?

For primary amenorrhea, a girl might not get her period due to irregular hormone levels, anatomical problems or other factors.

Secondary amenorrhea can be caused by pregnancy, menopause, breastfeeding or other issues including:

• Contraception

• Medication

• Being under or overweight

• Stress

• Excessive Exercise

• Hormonal imbalance due to thyroid issues, polycystic ovarian syndrome, pituitary tumor or premature menopause

• Structural issues with your reproductive organs

Should I be concerned if I am experiencing amenorrhea?

Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about:

• Infertility or concerns about future pregnancy

• Stress

• Osteoporosis

• Cardiovascular disease

• Pelvic pain

See your Hoag gynecologist or OB/GYN if you’re experiencing amenorrhea.