What condition is defined as the absence of menses by age 16 with normal development?

The condition characterized by the absence of menstruation by age 16, in the presence of normal secondary sexual development, is known as primary amenorrhea. This diagnosis is significant because it indicates that even though the individual has developed normally, they have not started menstruating. Primary amenorrhea is crucial for clinicians to recognize as it can highlight potential underlying issues with hormonal regulation, anatomical challenges, or genetic factors.

In primary amenorrhea, the individual meets the developmental milestones but does not experience menarche (the first menstrual period). It typically prompts further evaluation to rule out conditions such as Turner syndrome, gonadal dysgenesis, or other hormonal imbalances.

The distinction between primary and secondary amenorrhea is important. Secondary amenorrhea refers to the cessation of menstruation for three months or more in someone who has previously had regular cycles. Oligomenorrhea describes infrequent menstrual periods, while pseudomenorrhea is a term that might be used to describe vaginal bleeding that is not true menstruation, such as from other sources.

Understanding these definitions helps identify and manage various conditions related to menstrual health in women.