Amenorrhea What is it

Amenorrhea means that a woman of childbearing age not menstruates.

A woman normally menstruates every 23 to 35 days. The cycle is regulated by the brain called the hypothalamus, which also controls body temperature, appetite and blood pressure. The hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary gland (located near the base of the brain) to release two hormones that regulate the female reproductive cycle: luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone. These hormones influence the production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which are responsible for cyclic changes in the lining (lining) of the uterus, including menstruation. For a woman's cycles are regular, the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, ovaries and uterus must be functioning properly. The anatomy of the neck of the uterus (cervix) and vagina should also be normal to allow the passage of blood.

There are two types of amenorrhea:
The Primary amenorrhea occurs when a woman has had her first menstrual period (menarche) at age 16. This condition, also called "delayed menarche," is most frequently due to delayed puberty, a very common among adolescents is very thin or very athletic. Commonly, these girls are underweight and their bodies have not experienced the normal increase in body fat associated with puberty that drives the onset of menstruation. In other girls, the delay of menses may be due to Turner syndrome, a genetic disorder involving the sex chromosomes, or abnormal female reproductive organs.

The secondary amenorrhea happens when a woman who has menstruated previously not menstruate for three months.

Symptoms
Amenorrhea itself is a symptom. Any associated symptoms depend on the problem caused by the absence of menstrual periods. For example, various forms of hormonal imbalance may cause amenorrhea, as well as excess body and facial hair, acne, decreased voice, altered sex drive, breast milk secretions, weight gain, some or all of these symptoms.

Prevention
In many cases, teens can help prevent primary amenorrhea by a reasonable exercise program and maintaining a normal weight for height and age. Primary amenorrhea caused by anatomic abnormalities of the reproductive tract can not be prevented. To prevent secondary amenorrhea related to diet, excessive exercise or stress, you can follow these steps:
* Eat a low fat diet that meets the recommended daily nutritional requirements.
* Exercise moderately but not excessively, to maintain body weight and muscle tone ideals.
* Find healthy outlets for emotional stress and daily conflicts.
* Balance work, recreation and rest.
* Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and snuff.

Treatment
It is not necessary to treat primary amenorrhea caused by late puberty and disappears alone. In the case of primary amenorrhea caused by certain genetic abnormalities (hereditary), treatment depends on the problem. For example, if a genetic defect prevents the ovaries of a young working properly, ovarian hormones may be prescribed complementary to the young develop normal secondary sexual characteristics (breast development, pubic hair) and to prevent osteoporosis (bone-thinning disease), which can be caused by low estrogen levels. If the cause of amenorrhea is a structural problem, for example if the vagina has an unusual shape or has an opening, it is usually necessary to perform surgery.

If you have secondary amenorrhea due to menopause or a hysterectomy, your doctor will prescribe medication to prevent osteoporosis and other complications of low estrogen levels. In the case of other forms of secondary amenorrhea, the type of treatment depends on the cause:
* Stress: If emotional stress is the problem, your doctor may recommend that you enroll in a course to learn to handle it.
* Obesity: If obesity is the trigger for this condition, your doctor will advise a diet and exercise program to help you lose weight and improve your overall fitness.
* Excessive physical training: if the intensity of training is interrupting your menstrual cycle, your doctor will recommend a more moderate program. This will help normal menstruation begins again. Also reduce the risk of developing other conditions related to low estrogen levels, such as osteoporosis, heart disease, infertility and thinning of the tissues lining the vagina.
* Hormonal imbalance: If altered hormone levels are preventing ovulation (release of an egg from the ovary), it is likely that your doctor may prescribe supplemental hormones.
* Tumors or cysts in the ovaries, uterus or pituitary gland: If the causes of amenorrhea are cysts or tumors, treatment depends on the type and location. Sometimes surgery is needed.

Read more how to cure vaginal odor and irregular menstruation treatment. And more info about vaginal infection treatment.