This is particularly the case if the woman has lost a lot of weight, as with anorexia, or has little or no body fat, such as with women athletes. In uncommon cases cysts or tumors in the ovary may also cause secondary amenorrhea. Rarely, periods may stop as a result of the same hormone problems that cause primary amenorrhea, such as hypothyroidism. Permanent secondary amenorrhea occurs after menopause. Menopause may occur prematurely before age 40.
Periods also stop after a hysterectomy, which is surgical removal of the uterus.
The presence of other symptoms will depend on the underlying problem. Though rarely due to a life-threatening cause, amenorrhea can be a fairly complicated problem, and there is often no quick answer. It takes time and working closely with your doctor to diagnose the cause and to treat it. You will need a thorough history and a physical exam, including a pelvic exam. Other possible tests include obtaining blood samples to detect any hormonal abnormalities and an MRI scan of the pituitary to rule out a pituitary tumor.