AN OVERVIEW OF AMENORRHEA

Abstract

Amenorrhea is defined as the nonappearance of menstruation in women. Amenorrhea may be divided in to primary and secondary amenorrhea. Primary amenorrhea is caused due to anatomical, genetic, nutritional and other endocrine defects. Anatomical causes includes distal obstruction, MRKH and AIS. Primary Ovarian Insufficiency is the foremost causes of primary amenorrhea. The frequent causes of secondary amenorrhea are pregnancy. Other causes of secondary amenorrhea include PCOD, functional hypothalamic amenorrhea, POI. Depending upon the causes, the amenorrhea affected women should experiences the symptoms like hair loss, acne, excess facial hair, milky nipple discharge, etc along with the absence of menstruation. Amenorrhea is diagnosed using the patient laboratory data, pelvic ultrasonography, hysteroscopy. Management of amenorrhea is based upon its causes. PCOS patients is usually treated with regular exercise and healthy food diet. Amenorrhea is initially treated with hormonal therapy followed by hysterectomy. Regular intake of vitamin D and calcium is also recommended.