What causes periods stopped?

A missed period can follow a change in weight, exercise, eating patterns, stress or illness. Hormone conditions can interrupt the signals between the brain, pituitary gland and ovaries. Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea is linked to disrupted hormone signalling, while Hyperprolactinaemia involves raised prolactin. Premature Ovarian Insufficiency can reduce ovarian hormone activity earlier than expected. Menopause is another natural cause. Scar tissue inside the uterus, known as Asherman Syndrome, can affect menstrual flow. Turner Syndrome and an Imperforate Hymen are less common structural or chromosomal explanations.

If pregnancy is possible, take a pregnancy test and seek advice about the result. Keep a record of your last period, cycle pattern, symptoms, weight or exercise changes, medicines and contraception. A clinician may check hormone levels, thyroid function and prolactin, and may arrange an ultrasound or other examination based on your history. Do not stop prescribed medicine without advice.

Arrange a medical review if periods stop unexpectedly, remain absent, or stop with headaches, vision changes, breast milk discharge, pelvic pain, hot flushes or new excess hair growth. Seek urgent help for severe pelvic pain, fainting, heavy bleeding after a long gap, or possible pregnancy with pain or bleeding.

What causes are most relevant to my history? Which hormone or pregnancy tests should I have? Could my medicines, nutrition, stress or exercise be affecting my cycle?