By Dr. Beatriz Fernández de Valderrama (Gynaecologist – Reg. No. 282885307).
Amenorrhoea refers to the absence of menstruation in women of reproductive age. This condition can be an indication of disruptions in the normal functioning of the body or may signal underlying health issues.
Amenorrhoea is classified into two main types: primary and secondary, based on its cause and the timing of its onset.
The primary symptom of amenorrhoea is the absence of menstruation. However, depending on the underlying cause, other signs may also occur, such as headaches, vision changes, or unexplained weight loss.
In some cases, women with amenorrhoea may also experience abnormal lactation or alterations in mood or energy levels.

It occurs when a young woman has not had her first menstrual period (menarche) by the age of 15, despite having developed other secondary sexual characteristics. This may be due to genetic conditions such as Turner syndrome, malformations in the reproductive system, or hormonal imbalances.
On the other hand, occurs when a woman who has previously menstruated stops doing so for at least three months. Common causes include breastfeeding, premature menopause, thyroid disorders, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Some women may experience a temporary absence of menstruation after discontinuing oral contraceptives. This happens because the body requires time to restore its natural hormonal balance, but the menstrual cycle typically resumes after some time.
Functional hypothalamic amenorrhoea is caused by dysfunction of the hypothalamus, often due to factors such as stress or excessive exercise. There is also stress-related amenorrhoea, in which chronic stress disrupts the hormonal regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, leading to the cessation of menstruation.
During pregnancy, it is normal for menstruation to cease as the body focuses on maintaining and nourishing the developing fetus.

Pregnancy is possible, but it will always depend on the underlying cause of the amenorrhoea and whether ovulation still occurs. In some cases of amenorrhoea, ovulation may still take place irregularly, and if there is ovulation and unprotected intercourse, pregnancy can occur.
In the rest of the cases, assisted reproduction can help achieve pregnancy, either with eggs previously frozen by the patient or with personalized ovarian stimulation, or with procedures such as egg donation in cases in which a pregnancy has occurred. early menopause.
The treatment for amenorrhoea depends on the underlying cause of the absence of menstruation. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as gaining or losing weight, reducing stress, or adjusting exercise intensity may be sufficient. However, in other cases, hormonal treatment may be required.
Ultimately, it will be the specialist who determines the most appropriate course of treatment to restore the menstrual cycle.
When a woman is not pregnant and presents with amenorrhoea, it is essential to identify the cause as quickly as possible. This may involve laboratory tests, imaging studies, and a thorough evaluation of her medical history.
Seeking medical advice is crucial to prevent complications such as fertility issues or bone health problems.