The menstruation is a natural factor in the lives of all women of childbearing age, but some may experience absence of menstruation for various reasons. The absence of menstruation is called amenorrhea, and outside of what is considered normal situations — such as before puberty, during pregnancy, and at menopause — it may indicate that something is not right in the body. Many women end up not giving importance to the absence of menstruation and put off seeing a doctor for assessment. This can delay treatments and even worsen the problems that are leading to amenorrhea.
Types of Amenorrhea
Amenorrhea is classified into two types, primary and secondary. Primary amenorrhea is characterized by girls who have not yet menstruated after reaching 15 years old. In these cases, besides the absence of menstruation, symptoms such as lack of pubic hair growth and breast bud development are observed. Secondary amenorrhea is when women who have already menstruated go three to six months or more without a period for no obvious reason. In cases of primary amenorrhea, girls who haven’t menstruated by age 15 and notice their bodies are not going through the natural female changes should see a gynecologist. The absence of menstruation can happen due to problems or congenital anomalies in the reproductive system, hormonal imbalance, or in some cases, because of a hymen that is so thick it blocks menstrual flow.
IMPORTANT: It is not always possible to prevent problems like amenorrhea, but a disciplined life with a healthy diet and regular exercise — without excesses — reduces the chances.
In secondary amenorrhea, there are many different causes, and it should be investigated until the root is found. The main reasons are: pregnancy, excessive weight loss, obesity, eating disorders, hormonal imbalance, anxiety and stress, use of certain medications, tumors, and after uterine surgical procedures. Women who exercise intensely or follow strict and extreme diets can also experience absence of menstruation. Polycystic ovaries, hypothyroidism, hyperplasia, ovarian failure, or early menopause can also cause this symptom.
How to Diagnose the Cause of Amenorrhea?
The finding of amenorrhea and assessment of the situation should be performed by a gynecologist. The diagnosis will include a physical assessment, review of patient history, complete blood count, pelvic imaging tests, and a gynecological assessment. In cases of primary amenorrhea, more detailed blood tests can check for hormonal imbalances. Through these tests, possible abnormalities are analyzed, especially with imaging exams that allow doctors to examine the condition of the uterus and the whole reproductive system. Once the problem is detected, the specialist will recommend the appropriate treatment for the cause in order to normalize the menstrual cycle. It is important to note that absence of menstruation compromises female fertility and its lack can delay the dream of becoming a mother.
How to Treat?
After performing all the exams and procedures requested by the gynecologist and the cause of amenorrhea is found, the right treatment will be indicated. In primary amenorrhea, if hormonal imbalance is detected in the girl, the treatment is usually hormone medication to meet these needs. These hormone medications will accelerate the body’s transformation, or the doctor may recommend waiting longer for things to happen naturally. Some gynecologists prefer to wait until the girl turns 16 so that the body can respond naturally before starting treatment with hormone medications. If amenorrhea is caused by too much or too little body weight, treatment will focus on bringing weight back to normal to restore menstrual function. Most causes of amenorrhea can be treated, but only a doctor is qualified to evaluate, diagnose, and recommend treatment as well as the exact dosage in each case. Never self-medicate and always follow medical advice. See also: How Does the Menstrual Cycle Work?Photo: Greyerbaby
