When to worry about stopped periods with hypothalamic amenorrhoea

Hypothalamic amenorrhoea occurs when the brain reduces signals that coordinate reproductive hormones. This can happen when the body is not receiving enough energy for its needs, with intense exercise, significant weight change, ongoing stress, or a combination of factors. Most people with Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea notice periods stopped. Low oestrogen may also cause vaginal dryness, lower sexual interest, hot flushes, tiredness, or changes in bone health.

Arrange a medical review if periods stop after changes in eating, exercise, weight, or stress. Share your usual cycle, training, meals, weight changes, sleep, stress, medicines, and pregnancy possibility without self-blame. A clinician may check pregnancy, thyroid and reproductive hormones, general health, and nutrition. A dietitian or mental-health professional can be part of care when useful. Avoid increasing exercise or restricting food while waiting for advice.

Seek prompt care for fainting, chest symptoms, severe weakness, confusion, repeated vomiting, or signs of an eating disorder. Contact a clinician soon for persistent pelvic pain, new heavy bleeding, or a positive pregnancy test with pain or bleeding. Earlier review is also sensible after a fracture or when restrictive eating and intense exercise are difficult to change safely.

Ask which causes need ruling out, whether your nutrition and exercise pattern is suppressing hormone signals, how bone health should be assessed, and what recovery markers you should track.