amenorrhea (āmĕnˌərēˈa, əmĕnˌ–) [key], cessation of
menstruation. Primary amenorrhea is a delay in or a failure to
start menstruation; secondary amenorrhea is an unexpected stop
to the menstrual cycle. It is caused by dysfunctioning of the
pituitary gland, ovaries, uterus, and hypothalamus, by surgical
removal of the ovaries or uterus, by medication, or by emotional
trauma. The result is an inadequate amount of body fat,
calories, and protein to sustain menstruation. Female athletes
have a higher than average rate of menstrual dysfunction,
particularly amenorrhea, but the long-term effects of the
exercise-related disorders are not known. It is also common
among anorexics. The lack of estrogen, however, may contribute
to the development of osteoporosis. Hormonal deficiencies over
prolonged periods of time, particularly in combination with poor
diets, may cause luteal phase deficiency and hypoestrogenic
amenorrhea, which may last a long time. Methods of treatment
include oral contraceptives or estrogen-progesti