WHAT IS HYPOTHALAMIC AMENORRHOEA (HA) ?

Amenorrhoea is when you don’t get your menstrual period. There are two main types of amenorrhoea:

Primary amenorrhoea is when you have not had your first period by 16 or within five years of puberty.

Secondary amenorrhoea is when you have had regular periods, but you stop getting your period for more than three months.

Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea (HA) is a type of secondary amenorrhoea that is caused by problems with the hypothalamus, the part of your brain that regulates your female hormones.

WHY IT IS NOT OKAY TO NOT HAVE A PERIOD

I know the sound of not having a period might be appealing, but a regular menstrual cycle is a sign of good health. The female hormones have many uses in the body besides reproduction.

The long-term implications of HA include:

Increased risk of stress fractures and injury

Increased risk of Osteoporosis (brittle bones)

Increased risk of Heart Disease

Decreased performance in chosen sport

Fertility issues

You do not need to be an athlete or underweight to have  HA and its development is often due to a combination of factors.

It is important to get a formal diagnosis and support from a health care professional trained in the area.

OTHER SYMPTOMS

WHAT CAUSES HA

HOW I CAN HELP YOU TO RESTORE YOUR MENSTRUAL CYCLE AND KEEP IT

HA is a complex condition and is usually diagnosed by ruling out other conditions that could be causing the amenorrhoea.

A full assessment will be conducted, looking at:

Past medical history

Bloods, in particular the female hormones

Dietary intake and patterns

Exercise and physical activity levels

Relationship with food and exercise

Weight History

Mental Health

...and more

I understand how hard it can be to work towards recovery. I have helped and supported women just like you to restore their menstrual cycle.

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