There are two categories of amenorrhea: primary and secondary. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, primary refers to the condition when a young woman has not had her first period by her 16th birthday. Secondary, which happens without cause for alarm during pregnancy, is when a woman has maintained a regular cycle then fails to have a period for at least three consecutive months.
Symptoms
A missing period is the primary sign of amenorrhea, though a woman might also experience vision changes, breast discharge, headaches, and/or hair loss.
Risk factors
Marla Ahlgrimm explains that approximately 4% of the female population will experience non-pregnancy related amenorrhea in their lifetime. Risk factors include specific gene mutations, a family history of the condition, obesity, eating disorders, and excessive exercise.
Causes
Primary amenorrhea is often caused by chromosomal abnormalities such as a partially or fully missing X chromosome. Pituitary gland problems, eating disorders, and extreme physical or emotional stress may trigger amenorrhea. Secondary amenorrhea, when not caused by pregnancy or breastfeeding, may be a side effect of birth control or other medications. Marla Ahlgrimm notes that chemotherapy and radiation treatments may also cause amenorrhea. Gynecological issues including polycystic ovary syndrome may cause unbalanced hormones, which can lead to missing periods.
Treatment
Women with primary ovarian insufficiency may be prescribed estrogen replacement therapy to treat amenorrhea, says Marla Ahlgrimm. Birth control, clomiphene citrate, and surgery are other treatments for secondary amenorrhea. A delayed period is common for women whose mothers or grandmothers had amenorrhea and may not require treatment.
Marla Ahlgrimm explains that there are several tests that may be performed to identify the cause of amenorrhea and that it may be necessary to remove the ovaries to prevent cancer.