A condition in which menstruation begins at the appropriate age but later ceases for 6 or more months in the absence of normal causes such as pregnancy , lactation or menopause . Anxiety over a possible pregnancy may cause a missed period, thereby increasing the anxiety even further. Emotional distress from other causes can also cause a missed period.
Prevention depends on the cause.
For example, moderate exercise instead of extreme exercise, weight control , and other measures may be helpful. Other symptoms associated with amenorrhea depend on the cause. Physical and pelvic examinations must rule out pregnancy before other diagnostic testing begins. The patient may be encouraged to discuss her fears and, if indicated, may be referred for psychological counseling. If it is caused by another systemic disorder, normal menstrual function usually returns after the primary disorder is treated.