What is the term for the absence of menstruation?

The term for the absence of menstruation is amenorrhea. This condition can be classified into two types: primary amenorrhea, which refers to the absence of menstruation by age 15 or 16 in individuals who have otherwise developed secondary sexual characteristics, and secondary amenorrhea, which involves the cessation of menstruation for three or more consecutive cycles in someone who previously had regular cycles. This condition can arise from various factors including hormonal imbalances, significant weight changes, stress, excessive exercise, or medical conditions affecting the reproductive system.

Dysmenorrhea refers to painful menstruation, while menorrhagia indicates excessively heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. Oligomenorrhea describes infrequent menstrual periods, typically defined as having cycles exceeding 35 days. Understanding these definitions helps to distinguish between various menstrual disorders and provides insight into reproductive health.