What causes the lack of periods ?

Although they are supposed to take place every month, periods can sometimes be late, or even s'absent. This is known asamenorrhea. This absence of periods is not alarming, but should be monitored. Wondering what to do when your period disappears? We'll explain everything.

LIs the absence of periods normal?

Although periods is considered to last from 2 to 7 days, surprising as it may seem,amenorrhea can be normal. So the absence of periods should not worry you:

  • Before puberty;
  • During pregnancy;
  • During breast-feeding;
  • Menopause.

Two types of amenorrhea can affect women.

Lprimary amenorrhea

This is the absence of periods in girls over the age of 16. Despite normal growth and sometimes even the development of secondary sexual characteristics (formed breasts, armpit or pubic hair), they have never had their periods. Genetic diseases such as Turner's syndrome (the young woman has only one X chromosome) can cause this delay. Congenital malformation of the reproductive organs, overproduction of male hormones or genital disorders may also be considered.

Lsecondary amenorrhea

This term is used for women who are already on the pill and have noticed an absence of periods over a period of 3 cycles. Thus, a woman who is pregnant or has no periods after stopping taking the pill for 7 days and continuing for around 3 months is said to havesecondary amenorrhea.

What causes the absence of periods ?

Several factors can lead to a lack of periods :

LUse of contraception

Lheabsence of periods on the pill is very common. This hormonal device blocks ovulation. Bleeding between packets is therefore not really menstruation. If you're taking a micro-progestin-only pill, you may not even experience heavy bleeding. If you have no periods during your pill break, make sure it's not due to pregnancy. Hormonal IUDs, injectable contraceptives and continuous pills, on the other hand, cause aharmless absence of periods .

The onset of menopause or peri-menopause

Menopause is thenatural cessation of menstruation. It generally occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. The reduction in estrogen production may initially cause irregular cycles, known as peri-menopause. When theabsence of periods lasts for a year, menopause is usually established.

Chronic illness or stress

Laménorrhea can also be explained by certain illnesses. In a consultation, a doctor will want to rule out the following causes:

  • Ovarian tumor l;
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome;
  • Involvement of the uterus or vagina;
  • Hyper or hypothyroidism.

Lhe absence of periods can also be psychogenic, i.e. caused by a psychological factor such as stress or emotional shock. Professional pressure, loss of a loved one or separation can disrupt the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is responsible for hormone production, and any disturbance can influence menstrual cycles. Takingantidepressants or corticosteroids can also cause amenorrhea. Heavy treatments such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy can also disrupt menstruation.

Body weight

Sudden weight gain or loss can also cause an absence of periods. The majority of women suffering from eating disorders also experience amenorrhea. In the case of anorexia, for example, estrogen production drops, causing menstruation to stop.

After pregnancy: a natural cause

After giving birth, an absence of periods is perfectly natural. Lamenorrhea lasts between 6 and 8 weeks. In the case of breastfeeding, the absence of periods may be longer. A miscarriage or medical abortion also leads to an amenorrhea of one and a half or two months.

No periods and contraception: is there a link?

Contraceptive methods can have a direct impact on menstrual flow and periods. 

LThe absence of periods after stopping a pill

If you have no periods after stopping the pill for 7 days, don't worry. This post-contraceptive amenorrhea can even last several months without being alarming. In fact, periods do not return instantly after stopping the pill. The body may need several months to regain its natural reflexes with a classic ovulation cycle. After 5 months, don't hesitate to consult your gynecologist or a midwife for professional advice.

LThe absence of periods with the use of an IUD

The absence of menstrual periods on the pill is something to be concerned about, but with a hormonal IUD, it's normal. In fact, the role of the IUD is to block ovulation and the menstrual cycle. On the other hand, in the case of an absence of periods with a copper IUD, take a pregnancy test.

Should you consult your doctor about the absence of your periods ?

After a certain amount of time, it's best to consult a professional.

An absence of 1 month from periods

Amenorrhea lasting 1 month can be the symptom of too much stress, a weight problem or polycystic ovaries. Make an appointment with your doctor to determine the cause of your lack of periods. For sexually active women who do not have periods during the pill break, it is advisable to take a test to rule out any suspicion of pregnancy.

A 3-month absence from periods

In the case of secondary amenorrhea, your doctor can help you determine the causes. Lifestyle changes, intensive sports activities, eating disorders or certain medications could explain the absence of menstruation. Remember that stopping the pill without periods for 3 months is normal. SIf your doctor is unable to identify the probable cause of your amenorrhea, he or she will prescribe further tests.

FAQs on the absence of periods

What causes the absence of periods ?

The absence of periods can be caused by a number of factors: delayed puberty, pregnancy, hormonal contraception or intense stress. There are many reasons for this, so it's important to consult a specialist to find the cause of periods.

What diseases can stop periods ?

Lhe cessation of menstruation is sometimes caused by illness. These are very diverse and not always directly linked to hormonal activity: anorexia, bulimia, hyperthyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome, etc.

Can infections prevent periods ?

Infections have nothing to do with a missed period, even in the case of a urinary tract infection. However, if your period is accompanied by a fever, consult your doctor to make sure it's not linked to a uterine infection. You can also ask your doctor about your delayed periods.

Why don't I have my periods when I'm not pregnant?

There are several reasons why you may be missing your periods when you're not pregnant. If you've had a negative test result confirmed by a blood test, your absence from periods may be linked to stress or psychological shock. If you're feeling pressure at work or going through a personal ordeal (death of a loved one, divorce, financial difficulties), this can disrupt your cycles.



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