Not Pregnant, so why no Period?

[Felicia327]

Hi,

Patient is an overweight 43 year old female who hasn't menstruated since February. Pt is completely celibate for the last 5 years. Mother began change of life @ around fifty years old (began missing periods), sister is now age fifty and is starting to miss periods. Client reports having had regular periods all her life except for the last 3 years which she attributes to marital, work and school related stress. Can you ladies and Gents help me with some possible Diagnoses? Note: Patient weighs 325 pounds. Thanks for you help!!

[mcneillmama3, BSN, RN]

I was told by my family doctor that being overweight can interfere with menstrual cycles. Fat cells produce estradiol, a hormone similar to birth control pills. It could be the patient's weight problem creating hormonal imbalances. Women who exercise too much will also stop menstruating. This can lead to osteoporosis in young female runners.