Chapter 116 Irregular Menstrual Periods
INTRODUCTION
Description: Menstrual cycles that do not follow a rhythmic pattern or with a pattern differing significantly from that expected as “normal” are considered irregular.
Predominant Age: Reproductive, greatest in adolescents and patients who are experiencing climacteric changes.
ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS
Causes: Anovulation or oligo-ovulation, climacteric or menopause, hypogonadism (including exercise induced: excessive, associated with low body weight and anovulation), excess estrogen (obesity, polycystic ovary disease, exogenous estrogen), elevated prolactin, psychosocial conditions (anorexia, bulimia, stress), chronic illness, renal or hepatic failure, thyroid disease.
