Amenorrhea is a condition in which a woman does not have a menstrual period. It can be a symptom of a more serious medical issue or a side effect of medication. This condition is not life-threatening, but it can cause emotional distress.
If you have never had a menstrual period, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor. This will help them determine whether or not you are suffering from amenorrhea, and if so, whether or not there is something more serious going on. A doctor can also test for other health issues that might be causing your lack of periods. If you have a history of congenital defects, such as gonadal dysgenesis, a genetic disease that causes the ovaries to develop prematurely, you may have primary amenorrhea.
A doctor will usually begin by giving you a physical exam. This will include checking your genitals and pelvic organs, and examining your uterus. If the doctor finds that you have problems with your reproductive organs, they may order an ultrasound. This will reveal any internal organs or structural issues that might be causing your lack of menstruation. If the problem is found to be structural, the doctor will be able to prescribe medications and procedures to correct the problem.
If your doctor determines that you have amenorrhea, they will give you a treatment plan. This will help you restore your menstrual cycle, and possibly even allow you to become fertile. The outlook for the treatment will depend on the cause of your amenorrhea, and on your lifestyle.
Amenorrhea can be caused by many different types of conditions. If you have been having irregular periods for several months, your doctor will likely order blood tests to find out if you are experiencing hormonal imbalances. He or she will also check your thyroid function. You can also be tested for certain disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can cause your hormones to change. If the symptoms are not due to a medical condition, you may be able to use medications that will trigger your periods.
Some women develop amenorrhea because of a chromosomal disorder, such as Turner syndrome. This syndrome is caused by an incomplete or missing X chromosome. If the doctor suspects that the condition might be a genetic disease, he or she will order a chromosomal testing procedure. This can also be used to check for underlying genetic abnormalities that might be causing your menstrual absences.
Amenorrhea is not a life-threatening condition. However, it can lead to complications, and you should always have your genitals examined. You should also be aware of changes in your diet and exercise habits, and share these with your doctor. If you have amenorrhea, you should be careful to keep track of your menstrual cycles.
If you have been experiencing amenorrhea for more than a few months, it is a good idea to seek medical attention. There are many causes of amenorrhea, and a doctor will be able to diagnose and treat you.
