Overview
Contact a healthcare provider if you miss a period. They’ll ask you about your symptoms and medical history, including your menstrual history. Your provider will perform a physical exam and a pelvic exam.
How do healthcare providers test for amenorrhea?
Your healthcare provider may want to do some tests, including:
- Pregnancy test.
- Blood tests to check your hormone levels and detect thyroid or adrenal gland disorders.
- Genetic testing, if you have primary ovarian insufficiency and are younger than 40.
- MRI, if your provider suspects a problem with your pituitary gland.
- Ultrasound, if your provider suspects an issue with your ovaries or uterus.
Should I keep track of my periods?
Diagnosing amenorrhea can be challenging. If the cause of amenorrhea isn’t obvious, such as pregnancy or menopause, your provider may ask you to keep a record of changes in your menstrual cycle. This history of your periods can help your provider figure out a diagnosis.
Using an app or a journal, note:
- How long your periods last.
- When you had your last period.
- Medications you’re taking.
- Changes in your diet or exercise routine.
- Emotional challenges you’re having, such as stress.
Symptoms
When to see a doctor
Complications
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Heart failure.
- Some types of heart valve disease.
Prevention
- Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
- Don't smoke or use tobacco.
- Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
- Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Reduce and manage stress.
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