What to do if menstruation stops due to endocrine disorders
Jul 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, endocrine disorders leading to amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) may be caused by factors such as hormonal instability during puberty, ovarian function decline during perimenopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, and hyperprolactinemia. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause, followed by appropriate interventions such as general management, medication, or surgical treatment under the guidance of a physician.
Generally, amenorrhea caused by endocrine disorders may be due to factors such as hormonal instability during puberty, ovarian function decline during perimenopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, hyperprolactinemia, and others. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through lifestyle modifications, medication, surgical treatment, or other approaches. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Hormonal instability during puberty: During puberty, the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis is not yet fully mature, leading to fluctuating hormone levels that may cause irregular or absent menstruation. This is a normal transitional phase. Excessive intervention is unnecessary; maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding late nights, and eating a balanced diet can help. Menstruation will gradually return to normal as the endocrine system stabilizes with age.
2. Ovarian function decline during perimenopause: As ovarian function gradually declines, estrogen levels decrease, leading to prolonged menstrual cycles until menstruation stops altogether. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as hot flashes and insomnia. It is important to adjust one's mindset and accept these physiological changes. Consuming more foods rich in phytoestrogens, such as legumes and nuts, along with moderate exercise like walking or tai chi, can help improve overall physical condition.
3. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Hormonal imbalances lead to ovulatory dysfunction, manifesting as infrequent menstruation or amenorrhea, often accompanied by hirsutism and acne. Patients should follow medical advice to take hormonal-regulating medications such as dydrogesterone tablets, ethinylestradiol cyproterone acetate tablets, or spironolactone tablets. Weight management, reducing intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods, and increasing physical activity to boost metabolism are also essential.
4. Hypothyroidism: Insufficient thyroid hormone secretion affects endocrine regulation, leading to menstrual irregularities or amenorrhea, often accompanied by fatigue and cold intolerance. Patients should follow medical advice to take hormone-replacement medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid extract tablets, or Yikang capsules, and should also keep warm to avoid cold exposure.
5. Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated prolactin levels can suppress ovulation, causing amenorrhea, and may be accompanied by galactorrhea. If caused by a pituitary microadenoma, transsphenoidal pituitary tumor resection can be performed to remove the tumor and reduce prolactin levels.
In daily life, maintaining emotional stability and avoiding long-term anxiety or stress are important. Stress can be relieved through activities such as listening to music or traveling. Eating regularly, avoiding blind dieting for weight loss, and ensuring a balanced nutritional intake can help regulate the endocrine system and maintain a normal menstrual cycle.
