What are the consequences of losing weight leading to missed menstruation

Losing weight can lead to menstrual disorders, osteoporosis, and impaired fertility. Excessive dieting or exercise may inhibit hypothalamic function, leading to insufficient secretion of gonadotropins and subsequently affecting ovarian function.

1. Endocrine disorders

Rapid weight loss can cause a sharp decrease in body fat content, and adipose tissue participates in estrogen synthesis. When the body fat percentage is below a certain level, insufficient estrogen secretion can lead to menstrual cycle disorders. Long term amenorrhea may be accompanied by menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats, and in severe cases, it may trigger polycystic ovary syndrome or thyroid dysfunction.

II. Osteoporosis

Decreased estrogen levels can accelerate bone loss and increase the risk of fractures. Young women who experience amenorrhea for more than six months may experience a significant decrease in bone density, and even if their menstrual cycle recovers, some bone loss is irreversible. Daily attention should be paid to supplementing vitamin D and calcium to avoid stress fractures caused by intense exercise.

III. Impaired fertility

Prolonged amenorrhea may lead to premature ovarian failure, follicular development disorders, and thinning of the endometrium. Some patients still have ovulation disorders and a reduced probability of conception even after regaining weight. Pregnant women need to restore their menstrual cycle through hormone therapy and may require assisted reproductive technology intervention if necessary.

Fourth, metabolic syndrome [SEP]: When energy intake is insufficient, the body activates protective mechanisms and the basal metabolic rate continues to decrease. After returning to a normal diet, there may be retaliatory weight regain, accompanied by metabolic problems such as insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. This group of people has greater difficulty in losing weight in the future and is prone to forming a vicious cycle.

V. psychological Disorders

Long term amenorrhea may lead to emotional problems such as anxiety and depression, and some patients may develop pathological fear of weight, which can develop into eating disorders. It is necessary to cooperate with psychological counseling to establish a scientific weight management concept, avoiding excessive focus on body fat values and neglecting health indicators.

It is recommended to adopt a gradual weight loss strategy, with a weekly weight loss not exceeding one percent of total weight. Ensure a daily intake of no less than 1200 calories, with high-quality protein accounting for over 20%. Prioritize moderate to low-intensity exercises such as jogging and swimming to avoid consuming over 500 calories per day. Menstrual cessation for more than three months requires medical examination of six hormone levels, and if necessary, use estrogen and progesterone cycle therapy under the guidance of a doctor. Moderate consumption of soy products, nuts, and other foods rich in phytoestrogens is recommended in daily life, but they cannot replace medication treatment.