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Unlocking the Mysteries of Secondary Amenorrhea: What You Need to Know
Published: Oct 17, 2023
Secondary amenorrhea, the absence of menstrual periods in women who previously had them, can be puzzling. Let's explore the causes and how to approach this condition.
Decoding Secondary Amenorrhea
Secondary amenorrhea is when a woman misses her periods for more than three months after having regular cycles, or six months if her cycles were irregular. It can stem from issues in the hypothalamus, pituitary, ovaries, or uterus. The most common causes include functional hypothalamic amenorrhea or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Key Causes and Their Signs
Several factors can lead to secondary amenorrhea, such as excessive stress, changes in weight, and certain medications. Symptoms like acne, hirsutism, or a history of irregular menses might indicate PCOS. Additionally, estrogen deficiency symptoms like hot flashes could suggest primary ovarian insufficiency.
The Role of Laboratory Tests
To diagnose secondary amenorrhea, doctors perform lab tests to check hormone levels, including FSH, prolactin, and TSH. High FSH might indicate ovarian insufficiency, while abnormal prolactin levels suggest hyperprolactinemia. These tests help pinpoint the cause and guide treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's the absence of periods for over three or six months in women who previously had them.
Causes include stress, weight changes, medications, and conditions like PCOS.
Doctors use hormone tests to identify the underlying cause.
Yes, treatment depends on the underlying cause and the woman's health goals.
Key Takeaways
Understanding secondary amenorrhea is crucial for addressing menstrual health concerns.
References
- Deligeoroglou E, Athanasopoulos N, Tsimaris P, et al. Evaluation and management of adolescent amenorrhea. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2010; 1205:23.
- Reindollar RH, Novak M, Tho SP, McDonough PG. Adult-onset amenorrhea: a study of 262 patients. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1986; 155:531.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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