Review Article
Amenorrhea in adolescents: a narrative review
Abstract
Background and Objective: Amenorrhea is the absence of spontaneous menstruation in women of reproductive age. Understanding the normal menstrual physiology and regulatory processes is important in differentiating etiologies when evaluating amenorrhea. In adolescents, amenorrhea may warrant investigation, and pregnancy should always be ruled out. In young female adolescents, amenorrhea can be the presenting symptom of different conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, eating disorders, or female athlete triad. It is particularly important that menstrual cycle disorders be appropriately analyzed due to potentially serious and detrimental consequences of amenorrhea. Early diagnosis is essential to yielding more favorable outcomes. If not addressed early, future negative implications may ensue.
Methods: An electronic search was performed on MEDLINE and PubMed to identify relevant articles from 1990 to 2019.
Key Content and Findings: This narrative review focuses on primary and secondary amenorrhea and the best practical approach in evaluating and managing affected adolescent females.
Conclusions: Understanding normal menstrual physiology is crucial in recognizing concerns related to amenorrhea in adolescents. Prompt evaluation is necessary and diagnosis is warranted. Provision of appropriate care that is safe and evidence-based can prevent future negative health implications such as infertility and compromised bone health.
Methods: An electronic search was performed on MEDLINE and PubMed to identify relevant articles from 1990 to 2019.
Key Content and Findings: This narrative review focuses on primary and secondary amenorrhea and the best practical approach in evaluating and managing affected adolescent females.
Conclusions: Understanding normal menstrual physiology is crucial in recognizing concerns related to amenorrhea in adolescents. Prompt evaluation is necessary and diagnosis is warranted. Provision of appropriate care that is safe and evidence-based can prevent future negative health implications such as infertility and compromised bone health.
