Amenorrhea

Amenorrhea is the absence of menstrual periods and can be divided into two categories: primary & secondary. The menstrual cycle can be influenced by many factors.

To begin the evaluation of amenorrhea it is important to rule in or out the variety of possible causes.  It is important to get a thorough medical history including looking at all medications all surgical history, and pregnancy history. Looking into the menstrual history and evaluating some initial hormone levels such as : estradiol, FHS, LH, TSH, progesterone, and prolactin. 

Amenorrhea can be further subdivided into 3 categories such as hypoandrogenergic hypogonadism, hyperandronergic hypogonadism, and eugonadotropic hypogonadism. If ovulation is present it may be assumed that the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian axis is functioning. If ovulation is not occurring it is important to find out which hormone may be failing, which may reflect a miscommunication between the hypothalamus, pituitary and ovaries. 

Acupuncture helps to normalize hormones in the body and help to assist the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian-axis, helping to assist balance within the organs necessary for a healthy menstrual cycle.  In Chinese medicine amenorrhea may be caused by things such as congenital deficiency, excessive physical or emotional stress, over work, improper or poor diet, chronic illness, and obstructions as well as other causes. 

One of the strengths of Chinese medicine is to help differentiate between patterns and symptoms even when Western medicine has not yet determined a cause.  Our goal is to look at the overall menstrual cycle including the bleeding, pre-ovulation, and post-ovulation phases.  Helping to assist follicle health and promote ovarian responsiveness that in turn will help to regulate and maintain not only a healthy menstrual cycle, but the release of a healthy egg.  If follicles and eggs are healthy often the menstrual cycle will in turn be healthy.  
 

Have you been diagnosed with amenorrhea?  Contact us to learn more about our natural, safe, effective treatment options.