What causes secondary amenorrhea?

Sep 23, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
During pregnancy, progesterone and estrogen levels in women increase significantly. These hormonal changes suppress the normal function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, leading to secondary amenorrhea, breast tenderness, nausea, and vomiting. This is usually a normal physiological process during pregnancy and generally does not require specific treatment. Regular physical exercise may be appropriately increased in daily life.

Generally, secondary amenorrhea may be caused by factors such as pregnancy, lactation, endometrial tuberculosis, premature ovarian failure, and intrauterine adhesions. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive targeted treatment under the guidance of a physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Pregnancy

During pregnancy, levels of progesterone and estrogen in women increase. These hormonal changes suppress the normal function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, leading to secondary amenorrhea, breast tenderness, nausea, and vomiting. This is typically a normal physiological process during pregnancy and usually does not require special treatment.

2. Lactation

During lactation, prolactin levels rise in the body. This hormone suppresses the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, affecting the recovery of the menstrual cycle and thereby causing secondary amenorrhea. It is usually not accompanied by other discomforts. However, adequate nutrition and rest should be ensured to maintain milk quality and production.

3. Endometrial Tuberculosis

Infection of the endometrium by Mycobacterium tuberculosis may lead to endometrial tuberculosis, damaging the endometrium and disrupting the menstrual cycle, resulting in secondary amenorrhea along with symptoms of tuberculous intoxication such as night sweats and fatigue. Treatment under medical supervision may include medications such as pyrazinamide tablets, isoniazid tablets, and rifampicin capsules.

4. Premature Ovarian Failure

An autoimmune attack on the ovaries may lead to premature ovarian failure, preventing the endometrium from undergoing normal proliferation and shedding, thus causing secondary amenorrhea. Common accompanying symptoms include sweating and decreased libido. Treatment under medical guidance may include medications such as progesterone capsules, estradiol valerate tablets, and nilestriol tablets.

5. Intrauterine Adhesions

Intrauterine surgery or inflammation may lead to intrauterine adhesions (Asherman's syndrome). These adhesions prevent the normal shedding and expulsion of the endometrium, resulting in secondary amenorrhea, cyclical abdominal pain, and fatigue. It is recommended to visit a qualified hospital and undergo surgical treatments such as hysteroscopy or laparotomy under medical supervision.

In daily life, appropriate physical exercise can be increased to enhance physical strength and boost immune function.