Outline 6 causes of secondary amenorrhea?

1. Pregnancy: The most common cause of secondary amenorrhea is pregnancy. When a woman becomes pregnant, her menstrual cycle stops until after childbirth and breastfeeding.

2. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause irregular periods or absence of periods. This condition is characterized by the presence of multiple cysts on the ovaries and high levels of male hormones.

3. Thyroid disorders: Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can disrupt the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, leading to irregular periods or absence of periods.

4. Excessive exercise: Intense physical activity or excessive exercise can disrupt the hormonal balance in the body, leading to secondary amenorrhea. This is commonly seen in athletes or individuals who engage in rigorous training regimens.

5. Stress: Chronic stress can affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, leading to hormonal imbalances that can disrupt the menstrual cycle and cause secondary amenorrhea.

6. Eating disorders: Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia, can lead to nutritional deficiencies and hormonal imbalances that can cause secondary amenorrhea. These disorders can also affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, leading to disruptions in the menstrual cycle.

6 Causes of Secondary Amenorrhea:

1. Pregnancy: The most common cause of missed periods is pregnancy.

2. Hormonal Imbalances:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Thyroid dysfunction (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism)
- Cushing's syndrome
- Prolactinoma (a tumor of the pituitary gland)

3. Medications:
- Oral contraceptives
- Antipsychotics
- Antidepressants
- Chemotherapy drugs

4. Lifestyle Factors:
- Extreme weight loss or gain
- Excessive exercise
- Stress

5. Medical Conditions:
- Premature ovarian failure
- Asherman's syndrome (scarring of the uterus)
- Pelvic inflammatory disease

6. Other:
- Genetic disorders
- Tumors outside the ovaries or uterus