What Are the Causes of Amenorrhea?
The most common cause of amenorrhea is pregnancy. It is important to determine if you are pregnant to get early care.
Other causes may be related to hormones. The hormones in our bodies control the menstrual cycle. If there is an abnormality with the release of the hormones or the body's ability to correctly use or make those hormones, there can be a problem with the menstrual cycle.
Sometimes, the absence of reproductive organs (uterus, cervix or vagina) may be the cause of amenorrhea.
In some cases, increased activity, medications, weight changes, or stress may change the body's ability to release the right hormones to have menses. It is something that can be determined by your healthcare provider.
What Are the Risks of Amenorrhea?
The cause of amenorrhea will determine the risks. The most concerning risk is that of infertility (problems with getting pregnant). There may be other concerns related to the incorrect release of hormones. This is important because hormones control more than the menstrual cycle, including growth and puberty. There may be something blocking hormone release, such as a tumor, that should be removed to minimize risks of other problems.
