Amenorrhea

Amenorrhea is the complete absence of menstrual periods, classified as primary (never having started menstruation by age 15) or secondary (the loss of previously regular periods for three or more consecutive months). PCOS is one of the most common hormonal causes of secondary amenorrhea in women of reproductive age, occurring when prolonged anovulation means the uterine lining is never shed through normal menstruation. Beyond the absence of bleeding, amenorrhea in PCOS carries health risks including endometrial hyperplasia from unopposed estrogen exposure and potential bone density loss, making cycle restoration through PCOS treatment important for long-term health.