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Secondary amenorrhea - Treatment

Alternative Names

Amenorrhea - secondary

Treatment:

Treatment depends on the cause of the amenorrhea. Normal menstrual function usually returns after the primary disorder is treated.

For example, if the primary disorder is hypothyroidism, then amenorrhea will be cured when it is treated with thyroid supplements.

If the primary cause is obesity, vigorous athletics, weight loss, or similar factors, treatment recommendations may include a change in one's exercise routine and weight control.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome depends on the cause. Most of the conditions that cause secondary amenorrhea will respond to treatment.

Complications:

Depending on the cause, amenorrhea may be harmless, or it may be associated with overgrowth of the uterine lining, a condition called endometrial hyperplasia. This can sometimes lead to uterine cancer.

There may be other complications, depending on the cause of the amenorrhea.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your primary health care provider or OB/GYN provider if you are a woman and have missed more than one period so that the cause, and appropriate treatment, can be determined.

  • Reviewed last on: 6/26/2008
  • Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine; Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Lobo RA. Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Ovulatory and Anovulatory Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding, Management of Acute and Chronic Excessive Bleeding. In: Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2007: chap. 37.

Master-Hunter T. Amenorrhea: Evaluation and Treatment. Am Fam Physician. Apr. 2006; 73(8): 1374-82.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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