What does secondary amenorrhea refer to?

Secondary amenorrhea specifically refers to the absence of menstruation for three consecutive cycles or for six months in a woman who has previously had regular menstrual cycles. This condition often indicates an underlying issue, such as hormonal imbalances, stress, significant weight changes, or certain medical conditions.

The other options do not accurately define secondary amenorrhea. Absence of menses by age 14 pertains to a condition known as primary amenorrhea, which indicates that menstruation has not started by the typical age. Infrequent menstrual cycles describe another menstrual irregularity without indicating a complete absence of menstruation. Excessive menstrual bleeding, known as menorrhagia, refers to a different issue entirely, focusing on the volume of menstrual flow rather than the absence of menstrual cycles. Understanding these distinctions is important for diagnosing and managing different menstrual disorders effectively.