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Amenorrhea
Amenorrhea (pronounced ey-men-uh-REE-uh or uh-men-uh-REE-uh) is the medical term for the lack of a menstrual period. Amenorrhea is not a disease, but it can be a symptom of another condition.
Primary amenorrhea occurs when a girl has not had her first period by age 16. Secondary amenorrhea describes women who experience an absence of more than three menstrual cycles after having regular periods.
NICHD supports research on the causes and treatments for primary and secondary amenorrhea as well as the conditions for which secondary amenorrhea is often a main symptom, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and Fragile X-associated primary ovarian insufficiency (FXPOI).
General Information
Amenorrhea is the absence of a menstrual period. Missing a period, when not caused by pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menopause, may be a sign of a health problem.
Missing a period is the main sign of amenorrhea. Other symptoms can include excess facial hair, hair loss, headache, lack of breast development, and vision changes.
Risk factors for amenorrhea include excessive exercise, obesity, eating disorders, a family history of amenorrhea or early menopause, and genetic changes.
Amenorrhea may be a sign of another health problem rather than a disease itself. It also can occur as a natural part of life, such as during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
A health care provider will usually ask a series of questions and conduct a physical exam, including a pelvic exam, to diagnose amenorrhea.
Treatment for amenorrhea depends on the underlying cause, as well as the health status and goals of the individual. It may include lifestyle changes, watchful waiting, medication, or surgery.
Research
Learn more about NICHD research on amenorrhea:
Find a Study
NICHD conducts and supports a variety of clinical research projects related to amenorrhea.
More Information
Find answers to other common questions about amenorrhea, such as how to describe it to a health care provider and how it can affect bone health and fertility.
Links to websites of groups that study or provide information about amenorrhea.
Alternate Titles
Skipped or No Menstrual Periods
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