The absence of the menstrual cycle, clinically termed amenorrhea, is a common health complaint in females. Missing periods have always been a matter of concern. Medical care depends on the underlying condition causing it. Consult your doctor early on.
The two types of amenorrhea are divided into primary and secondary amenorrhea. Primary amenorrhea is when a female hasn’t had her period by 15. Here this blog talks about secondary amenorrhea. Reach out to your health care provider in order to receive the best possible medical assistance. You may contact the best gynaecologist in Siliguri city.
Associate Symptoms of Amenorrhea
The main symptom of amenorrhea includes missing periods for three months or more in one row. Other signs may include:
- Hot flashes
- Nipple discharge
- Hair loss
- Headaches
- Pelvic pain
- Vision changes
- Unusual facial hair
- Acne-prone skin
- Vaginal dryness
Such symptoms themselves are concerning. Go for health evaluation under medical supervision so as to identify what is responsible for developing these concerns. Your doctor may order a few tests in order to rule out the reason. Make sure not to delay. The more delay, the further the health hazards.
Knowing the Causes of Secondary Amenorrhea
A number of reasons can contribute to secondary amenorrhea, including:
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Polycystic ovary syndrome. Much remains unknown about what exactly is responsible for PCOS. This hormonal disorder accounts for causing ovary enlargement and cyst growth. PCOS results in severe hormonal imbalance, leading to absent periods, weight gain, excess facial, body hair, male-pattern baldness, etc. Untreated PCOS can result in infertility as well.
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Primary ovarian insufficiency. In simple words, primary ovarian insufficiency refers to the loss of normal ovary efficiency before 40. Possible symptoms include missing periods, irregular periods, a decline in sex drive, hot flashes, trouble getting pregnant, night sweats, mood swings, trouble sleeping, vaginal dryness, et al.
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Hypothyroidism. Thyroid disorders are another common health complaint, these days. An underactive thyroid refers to hypothyroidism can result in several health issues if remains untreated. Symptoms may involve fatigue, impaired memory, irregular periods, sensitivity to cold, dry skin, hoarseness, hair thinning, depression, weight gain, muscle weakness, increased blood cholesterol levels, joint pain, goiter, etc.
Other causes of secondary amenorrhea include – pregnancy, breastfeeding, use of an intrauterine device, sudden weight gain, or weight loss, excessive stress, chronic illnesses, malnutrition, received chemotherapy or radiation therapy, menopause, hypothalamus disorders, etc.
Certain medications such as antidepressants, antipsychotic drugs, blood pressure meds, or allergy meds may interfere with the normal menstrual cycle. At the same time, structural issues with the reproductive system can lead to such a condition, as uterine scarring. Family history or eating disorders can be two potential contributing factors here.
A wide range of diagnostic procedures and tests are available for secondary amenorrhea, involving – blood tests, imaging tests, pregnancy tests, ovary function tests, hysteroscopy, etc. You may not require all such tests. But be sure you get done tests as directed by your gyne doctor. Schedule an appointment with the best gynecologist and IVF specialist in Siliguri town.
Treatment for secondary amenorrhea rests on the underlying condition responsible for it. A specialist may suggest medications, lifestyle modifications, stress management, estrogen therapy, or surgery. If pregnancy causes you to miss periods, then you need no treatment.
