Amenorrhea is a condition defined by the absence of menstruation in women. The primary amenorrhea is the absence of menstrual cycle in girls aged over 15 who have undergone other normal changes during puberty. This can develop with problems of the reproductive organs or the glands secreting the hormones. The secondary amenorrhea can occur when a woman with normal menstrual cycle misses at least three consecutive periods in a row. Amenorrhea is not a disease but can be the symptom of an underlying condition.
Causes
There are various causes that can affect a women’s menstrual period. The primary amenorrhea can be caused by genetic abnormalities, pituitary problems, excessive exercise or stress. The secondary amenorrhea can be the result of natural causes such as pregnancy, menopause and breastfeeding. It can also be the result of medications involving birth control pills, antidepressants, allergy medications, blood pressure medications, chemotherapy and radiation treatment for cancer. The other causes include gynecological conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, thyroid problems and pituitary tumors.
Symptoms
The only sign associated with amenorrhea is the absence of menstrual period. The other symptoms may develop as the result of an underlying condition and may include pelvic pain, acne, hair loss, excess facial hair, vision change and discharge from the nipples.
Diagnosis
A physical examination seeks to identify abnormalities of the reproductive organs. The diagnosis focuses on detecting the cause of this condition and can include thyroid function test, check the level of prolactin and ovary function test. In addition, imaging tests may also be required depending on the associated symptoms. This can include ultrasound, MRI and CT scans to assess the ovaries, kidneys and identify a pituitary tumor.
Treatment
The treatment is based on the underlying cause of this condition. In the case of primary amenorrhea caused by birth defect, hormone medications or surgery may restart the menstrual cycle. If a tumor in the brain has been detected as the cause, medications to reduce the tumor, a surgery or a radiation therapy may be required. When it’s identified with certain lifestyle changes, gaining weight or reducing the strenuous exercise may initiate the menstrual cycle again.
Risk factors
The risk factors associated with amenorrhea includes obesity, excessive exercise and eating disorders. Individuals with the family history of amenorrhea are predisposed to inheriting this condition.
Complications
The complications of amenorrhea include infertility when women cannot ovulate with the absence of menstrual periods. Osteoporosis also develops as the result of low level of estrogen in the body with the absence of menstruation.
References
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/amenorrhea/basics/treatment/con-20031561
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/amenorrhea/conditioninfo/Pages/symptoms.aspx
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001218.htm
