Amenorrhea / Oligomenorrhea
Our amenorrhea / oligomenorrhea specialists in New York are here for you. Our team of endocrine doctors near you are dedicated to supporting your success and ensuring that you regain your metabolic health and overall wellness.
What Is Amenorrhea / Oligomenorrhea?
The menstrual cycle is a highly regulated physiological process that makes conception and pregnancy possible. Hypothalamic and pituitary hormones control menstrual bleeding (menses) from the beginning of menstruation (menarche) to its end (menopause). Even the smallest changes in hormone levels can result in menstrual cycle abnormalities. Common manifestations of menstrual cycle abnormalities include amenorrhea (menstrual cessation) and oligomenorrhea (infrequent menstrual periods).
Amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstrual periods and is classified into two types: primary and secondary. Primary amenorrhea occurs when menstrual periods have not started by the age of 15. Secondary amenorrhea is when menstrual periods are absent for more than three to six months in a woman who previously had regular periods. Oligomenorrhea, on the other hand, is the medical term for infrequent menstrual periods, defined as having fewer than six to eight periods per year.
What Are the Causes of Amenorrhea / Oligomenorrhea?
Primary amenorrhea can be caused by genetic or reproductive organ abnormalities present at birth or any condition that also causes secondary amenorrhea. Secondary amenorrhea is most commonly due to pregnancy. Other causes include ovarian conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or early menopause; hypothalamic amenorrhea (often linked to low body weight, eating disorders, stress, or intense exercise); and prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors. Similar conditions can cause oligomenorrhea, with PCOS being a common cause. Understanding these causes is essential for diagnosing and treating menstrual irregularities effectively.
What Are the Treatments and Therapies for Amenorrhea / Oligomenorrhea?
Treatment for absent or irregular periods depends on the cause and pregnancy goals. Options include birth control pills to regulate periods, weight loss if overweight, and medications to aid pregnancy. Dietary and exercise changes, such as eating more calories, gaining weight if underweight, reducing excessive exercise, and managing stress, can also help. Hormone therapy may be used for early menopause symptoms, and medications can lower prolactin levels if the pituitary gland is overactive. These treatments address the underlying issues to improve your overall reproductive health.
How Can Well by Messer Help You with Amenorrhea / Oligomenorrhea?
At Well By Messer, our amenorrhea specialists and oligomenorrhea doctors help patients through comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plans. Our approach begins with a thorough medical history and a physical examination. We also review any medications, stress levels, weight changes, diet, and exercise patterns. Based on our findings, we may order blood tests to measure hormone levels. We can also order advanced imaging tests to check for any other abnormalities. Our goal is to provide comprehensive care to help restore regular menstrual cycles and improve your overall health.
Meet the Well by Messer (WBM) Team
Under the leadership of top endocrinologist in New York, Dr. Caroline Messer, our caring and talented team of board-certified endocrinologists, psychologists, nutritionists, and personal trainers will be dedicated to supporting your success and regaining your metabolic health at our metabolic centers in Manhattan.
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