Amenorrhea
ay-men-oh-REE-ah
Definition
Amenorrhea is the medical term for the absence of menstrual periods. Primary amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstruation by age 15 in someone with normal growth and secondary sexual characteristics, while secondary amenorrhea is the cessation of periods for three months or more in someone who previously had regular cycles.
Why It Matters
Understanding amenorrhea is crucial because absent periods can signal underlying hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, thyroid dysfunction, or conditions like PCOS and hypothalamic amenorrhea. Identifying and treating the root cause helps restore hormonal balance, protect bone health, and optimize fertility.
Related Conditions
Related Modalities
Frequently Asked Questions
Secondary amenorrhea can be caused by excessive exercise, low body weight, chronic stress, PCOS, thyroid disorders, premature ovarian insufficiency, or hormonal birth control discontinuation. A comprehensive evaluation helps identify the root cause.
Naturopathic treatment addresses the underlying cause—whether it's supporting thyroid function, optimizing nutrition, managing stress with adaptogens, balancing blood sugar in PCOS, or using cycle-regulating herbs. The goal is to restore the body's natural menstrual rhythm.
Dr. Sanika Kshirsagar, ND
Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine (ND)
Bastyr University, Kenmore, WA
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