A to Z: Amenorrhea, Secondary

Amenorrhea is when a girl is not getting her period. The two types of amenorrhea are primary amenorrhea and secondary amenorrhea.

Secondary amenorrhea is when a girl who had been getting her period stops menstruating for more than 6 months or for more than three of her usual cycles.

More to Know

Causes of secondary amenorrhea include pregnancy, hormone imbalances, stress, thyroid conditions, ovarian cysts, being too thin, and long-term illness. Girls who exercise intensively may miss periods if they don't get enough calories in their diet.

Keep in Mind

Treatment may help periods start or return. Depending on the cause, this might include medication, stress reduction, dietary changes, or reducing excessive exercise. In a few instances, surgery might be recommended.

All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts.