Hypothalamic amenorrhea
Hypothalamic amenorrhea, also known as Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea ( FHA), is a disorder in which you do not menstruate due to a problem present in your hypothalamus.
The hypothalamus is the brain's command centre; it controls a wide range of physiological reactions, including appetite, body temperature, and some reproduction elements. In particular, it releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which regulates menstruation along with estrogen, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
Your hypothalamus stops releasing GnRH, which throws your hormone system out of balance. Periods become erratic or nonexistent as a result.
Some of the most common symptoms of hypothalamic amenorrhea include:
- Depression and anxiety
- Headaches
- Trouble sleeping
- Hunger
- Low energy
- Vaginal dryness
- Hair loss
- Low sex drive
Treating Hypothalamic amenorrhea
Lifestyle modifications are the primary treatment used by medical professionals for hypothalamic amenorrhea. A change in lifestyle could involve cutting back on strenuous exercise, gaining weight, or finding ways to manage stress.
Your healthcare physician can advise you to consult a dietitian to understand better the nutrition your body requires and the recommended daily caloric intake. They can assist you in calculating a healthy body mass index (BMI) and suggest dietary improvements to enhance your activity level.
Some individuals with hypothalamic amenorrhea seek cognitive behaviour therapy from a mental health provider. Those with eating problems or those who deny they have one will find this highly beneficial. Experts in mental health can also provide stress-reduction techniques.
Your doctor could occasionally advise hormone therapy, birth control pills, or fertility medications to start menstruation. If you have Hypothalamic amenorrhea, there isn't a miracle meal, diet, or supplement that will make your period come back.
Many aspects are involved in addressing Hypothalamic amenorrhea. Yes, some are related to food, but there are also psychological and emotional factors to consider.
Correct diagnosis and treatment in medicine
Obtaining an accurate medical diagnosis and continuing care from qualified specialists is imperative. There are several causes of amenorrhea; thus, it's essential to identify the exact cause.
This entails visiting your physician, undergoing physical examinations and blood testing, and maybe receiving a referral to a specialist such as an endocrinologist. It is necessary to rule out other possible reasons of amenorrhea, such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome).
Frequent, unrestricted nourishment
Honour your appetite, achieve food freedom, and nourish your body. Consume food that you enjoy, eat frequently, and avoid following any diet fads. You do not need to impose any restrictions on when, what, or how much you eat if you have Hypothalamic amenorrhea.
You must persuade your brain that you are "safe" and that energy—calories—is easily accessible to recover from HA. Restricting puts you at risk of entering a negative energy balance, in which your body believes there isn't enough energy to sustain regular periods.
Only light exercise
Exercise lightly. Yes, exercise benefits us, but prolonged or vigorous exercise puts much "stress" on the body and may prevent your menstrual period from returning. Extensive aerobic activities, such as long-distance running or high-intensity workouts, can be taxing.
Try something different, like yoga, Pilates, or even just a stroll; extra points for strolling outside and absorbing some sunshine.
Stress management
Now that we're talking about stress, do you feel stressed out? Think about how you could streamline your days and adjust certain aspects to allow for extra downtime. High levels of stress are harmful to menstruation!
The hypothalamus detects that it is not a safe time for you to become pregnant, which leads to the development of Hypothalamic amenorrhea. Your endocrine (hormone) and neurological systems are linked to your hypothalamus.
This is how it happens. When you are under stress, your body uses the neurological system to convey signals to your brain. These impulses then reach the hypothalamus, which alters the amounts of female hormones.
Make use of your support system
Spend time with your support system, which includes your family and friends. Spend time with folks who appreciate and comprehend the changes you're undergoing. One of the finest ways to unwind is to do something enjoyable!
Suppose you're having trouble with disordered eating or are concerned about the healing process in any manner. You may also consider contacting a psychologist or therapist as part of your support system.
Patience and self-love are essential
Never forget to love yourself. That could be challenging at times, particularly if your body is changing. Gaining weight can be uncomfortable for many women with Hypothalamic amenorrhea who need to achieve it to resume their periods. Fighting against the constant rhetoric of diets and support for weight loss in our society is difficult.
Another step in the process is patience. Hormone changes can sometimes occur slowly, and you may not notice the initial changes within your body. Don't let the procedure frustrate you.
Keep your bone health in mind
Keep an eye on the condition of your bones! You should talk about this with your healthcare practitioner as well, as they can refer you for the appropriate tests to examine your bones.
Osteopenia and osteoporosis are two long-term effects of Hypothalamic amenorrhea that are linked to poor bone health. This is because low oestrogen accelerates bone thinning and alters bone cells' life cycle.
The solution is to resume oestrogen production, meaning your periods will return. Meanwhile, it's essential to maintain a balanced diet and make sure you're getting enough calcium and vitamin D.
When to consult a doctor
Hypothalamic amenorrhea may be the cause of your missed menstrual cycle. While it might not seem a vast concern, irregular periods can lead to other health issues. Speak with a healthcare professional if it has been three months or more since you last had your period. To find out why you aren't getting regular periods, they can order tests and provide you with the necessary treatment to start menstruation again.
Conclusion
Healing from hypothalamic amenorrhea might not be the most uncomplicated process, but following a balanced diet, practising light exercises, managing stress, and regular check-ups with your health practitioner might help in treating and managing them.
