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What is amenorrhea?

2026-09-10 11:52:26

Amenorrhea overview and content structure

Amenorrhea refers to the cessation of menstruation for more than 6 months after puberty, pregnancy or lactation. It is divided intoprimary amenorrhea(no menstruation before age 16) andsecondary amenorrhea(Stopped after the original menstruation).The main causes include hormonal imbalance, reproductive organ abnormalities, mental stress, excessive weight loss or disease, etc.This article will start from the definition, classification, causes, symptoms and countermeasures, focusing on the common causes and scientific treatment methods of secondary amenorrhea to help women correctly understand and deal with this problem.

Definition and classification of amenorrhea

What is amenorrhea?

Amenorrhea is not an independent disease, but a symptom caused by many factors.Primary amenorrhea is usually related to genetics and congenital developmental defects (such as missing uterus); secondary amenorrhea is mostly caused by acquired factors, such asPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid dysfunction or rapid weight changes.Data show that about 3%-5% of women will experience secondary amenorrhea, 30% of which are related to excessive diet or exercise (source:"Chinese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology").Clear classification is the first step in diagnosis and treatment.

Common causes of amenorrhea

Hormone imbalance is the core cause, such as hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis dysfunction, orToo high prolactinSuppresses ovulation.Other triggers include:Endometrial damage(such as multiple induced abortions), chronic diseases (diabetes, tuberculosis) and mental stress.For example, chronic anxiety can suppress gonadotropin release, causing menstruation to pause.In addition, extreme weight loss (body fat rate less than 17%) may trigger "hypothalamic amenorrhea", which requires intervention through nutritional supplements and psychological counseling.

Symptoms and scientific responses

closure often accompanieshot flashes, osteoporosisOr hormone abnormalities such as acne.The diagnosis requires a combination of six sex hormones, B-ultrasound and other examinations.Treatment needs to target the cause: PCOS patients may need to take oralMetformin(such as Glucophage, manufacturer: Bristol-Myers Squibb) or short-acting contraceptives (such as Yasmin, Bayer Pharmaceuticals); for thyroid problems, Euthyrox (Merck Pharmaceuticals) needs to be supplemented.Non-drug management includes a balanced diet, moderate exercise and stress reduction techniques (yoga, meditation).

Summary and reminder

Amenorrhea is a warning signal from the body that should not be ignored.Women should avoid taking hormone drugs on their own and need to investigate the cause of the disease under the guidance of a doctor.Maintaining a regular schedule and maintaining a healthy weight are key preventive measures.If amenorrhea lasts for more than 6 months, you should see a gynecologist or endocrinologist promptly to avoid cardiovascular or skeletal problems caused by long-term estrogen deficiency.

Common amenorrhea-related drugs and manufacturers
Drug nameEfficacyManufacturer
YasminRegulate hormones and restore menstrual cycleBayer Pharma
Glucophage (metformin)Improve insulin resistance (applicable to PCOS)Sino-American Shanghai Bristol-Myers Squibb
EujialeCorrect hypothyroidismMerck Pharmaceuticals

Quote sources:

1. "Chinese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology" 2021 "Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Female Amenorrhea"
2. "The Complete Book of Women's Health" by Lang Jinghe, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital
3. For drug information, please refer to the data published by the State Food and Drug Administration.

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