Amenorrhea

Amenorrhea refers to conditions where menstruation has ceased. This often happens when a woman has moderate to severe anemia, for the body is attempting to preserve blood and vital energy. Menstruation and ovulation can also cease because of a hormonal imbalance. Finally, women who engage in very strenuous athletic programs, such as long-distance runners, can stop menstruating. This may be due to an increase in testosterone which the body produces in order to respond to the increased demand to build muscle tissue.