Does hypothalamic amenorrhoea cause periods stopped?

Hypothalamic amenorrhoea reflects reduced brain-to-ovary hormone signalling. The change can follow low energy availability, demanding exercise, emotional strain, weight loss, or several factors together. Without regular ovulation, the womb lining may not follow its usual cycle, so bleeding stops. Other conditions can also stop periods, and a clinician should distinguish them before treatment is chosen.

Write down when bleeding stopped and any changes in eating, training, stress, weight, sleep, or medicines. Check for pregnancy when relevant. A clinician may assess general health, request hormone and thyroid tests, and consider bone health if the absence continues. Improving energy intake, allowing recovery, and addressing stress are common parts of care, tailored to your circumstances.

Arrange an appointment when periods stop unexpectedly, especially after regular cycles, or when the change persists. Seek urgent help for severe pelvic pain, fainting, heavy bleeding after a long gap, severe headache, or new vision problems. These symptoms may need prompt assessment for causes beyond hypothalamic amenorrhoea.

What could have stopped my periods? How will you distinguish hypothalamic amenorrhoea from other causes? Should I change exercise or nutrition with professional support? Do I need monitoring for bone health?