Amenorrhea (absence of periods)

Amenorrhea is the absence of a menstrual period in a woman of reproductive age.  Amenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation in a woman by the age of 16. Secondary amenorrhea is where an established menstruation has ceased for three months in a woman with a history of regular menstrual periods, or six months in a woman with a history of irregular periods.  The most common cause of amenorrhea is pregnancy. Other causes of amenorrhea include problems with the reproductive organs or with the glands that help regulate hormone levels.

Symptoms 
Depending on the cause of amenorrhea, you might experience other signs or symptoms along with the absence of periods, such as:

• Milky nipple discharge
• Hair loss
• Headache
• Vision changes
• Excess facial hair

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, please contact Dr. Linda Gedeon for proper evaluation and to discuss the best treatment options for you.