Have your periods suddenly stopped? If you’re not pregnant or in menopause, it might be a condition called amenorrhea — the absence of menstruation. Whether it comes on gradually or all at once, a ceased period is your body’s way of waving a red flag.
If you are worried, you have every reason to be worried. But you need information to ease your anxiety.
Here’s everything you need to know, from causes to cures and when to seek help.
❓ What Is Amenorrhea Or Ceased Period?
Amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstruation (1).
Basically, there are two types. They are Primary amenorrhea: When a girl hasn’t started her period by age 15 and Secondary amenorrhea: When a woman who used to have regular periods suddenly stops for three months or longer.
🧠 What Causes a Ceased Period?
✅ Known Causes
The major known causes are:
Pregnancy
Breastfeeding
Menopause
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Stress
Over-exercising
Sudden weight loss
Thyroid issues
Certain medications
🧬 Lesser-Known Causes:
Pituitary gland tumours
Uterine scarring (Asherman’s syndrome)
Premature ovarian failure
Genetic disorders
Chronic illnesses like diabetes
🌿 Can You Prevent Ceased Period?
Some forms of amenorrhea can be prevented by:
Keeping a balanced diet
Avoiding extreme workouts or crash diets
Managing stress
Monitoring menstrual cycles regularly
Seeking help early for irregular periods
💊 How Is It Treated?
The right treatment depends on the cause:
Hormonal therapy (estrogen/progesterone)
PCOS management through diet, exercise, and medication
Thyroid or pituitary disorder treatment
Surgical procedures in rare cases like tumors or scarring
Natural remedies like vitex, evening primrose oil, or maca—only with medical guidance
👩🦰 Who Is Most At Risk Of Ceased Period?
Teenagers with high physical activity or stress
Women with eating disorders
Women with PCOS
Those with family history of hormone disorders
💔 Does Amenorrhea Affect Fertility?
Yes! If you’re not ovulating regularly, getting pregnant becomes harder.
Also Read: Menstrual Cramps: Simple Natural Home Remedies That Work
However, the good news is that fertility can often return once the root cause is addressed.
🩺 When To See A Doctor
Basically, you should see a healthcare provider if, you have missed three or more periods, never had a period by age 15 or have symptoms like hair loss, acne, weight loss, or vision issues.
⚠️ Is Cease Period Linked To Cancer?
Not directly. But the underlying causes of amenorrhea — like unopposed estrogen from PCOS — can increase your risk of endometrial cancer if not treated over time.
For this reason, it is important tp address amenorrhea early.
🧘♀️ Takeaway
A ceased period isn’t just inconvenient, it is a message from your body.
Listen to it, act on it, and get support.
Understand that with the right care, balance can be restored and your health protected.