| Menstrual woes Question : I HAVE had no menstruation for the past two years
since I came back from Sydney. I was homesick
in the first year, coping with studies, stress and a new
environment.
In the second year, I went on a diet because all my
friends were doing that. Please advise.
Answer : The absence of menstruation in a woman during the
menstruating years for more than six months is called
amenorrhea. This is not a diagnosis, but a symptom of
another condition.
The most complex aspect of treating amenorrhea is to
establish the exact cause for the absent period, which is why
you should consult a gynaecologist.
Most cases of primary amenorrhea can be traced to
hormonal imbalances or malnutrition; less commonly
the failure to menstruate is due to genetic or structural
abnormalities, such as the absence of a uterus.
Secondary amenorrhea often develops during strenuous
dieting for weight loss.
It is one of the hallmarks of anorexia nervosa, a serious
eating disorder. Other precipitating factors include stress,
over-exercising, the use of oral contraceptives and other
medications, extreme obesity, hormonal disorders and tumours.
Evening primrose oil is a hormone-balancing nutrient to
help regulate the oestrogen and progesterone levels.
It has been proven to be effective in regulating the
hormone levels as it supplies the body with gamma-linolenic
acid (GLA) which will then be converted to beneficial
prostaglandins.
Stress can sometimes lead to amenorrhea. The oestrogen
levels are in the lower range and often ovulation does not
occur.
Have enough rest and learn to manage stress wisely. Yoga
and meditation may help you cope better with stress. Exercise
regularly but not too strenuously as it may interfere with the
hormones. |
