Types of Amenorrhea

1. Primary Amenorrhea

• Seen in women who have not had their first period by the age of 16.
• May be caused by genetic, hormonal, or developmental reasons.

2. Secondary Amenorrhea

• The absence of menstruation for at least 3 months in a woman who previously had regular periods.
• May result from hormonal imbalances, stress, or certain health conditions.

Common Causes of Amenorrhea

1. Natural Conditions

• Pregnancy: One of the most common causes.
• Breastfeeding: Menstruation may be delayed due to an increase in prolactin hormone.
• Menopause: Occurs between ages 45–55 when menstruation completely stops.

2. Hormonal Imbalances

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Can prevent ovulation, causing irregular or absent menstruation.
• Thyroid disorders: Underactive or overactive thyroid hormones may stop the menstrual cycle.
• High prolactin levels: Excess of this hormone, secreted by the pituitary gland in the brain, can cause menstruation to stop.

3. Lifestyle Factors

• Excessive stress: Can affect hormone-regulating centers in the brain.
• Excessive weight loss or low body fat: Eating disorders such as anorexia may stop the menstrual cycle.
• Intense exercise: Especially common among professional athletes.

4. Problems Related to Reproductive Organs

• Uterine adhesions (Asherman’s Syndrome)
• Ovarian failure or premature menopause

How Is Amenorrhea Treated?

• If pregnancy is present, the pregnancy process is monitored.
• Hormonal imbalances can be regulated with medication.
• For PCOS or thyroid disorders, appropriate drug therapy is applied.
• In cases caused by excessive exercise or poor nutrition, lifestyle adjustments are made.