Free Book Excerpt from "The V Book: A Doctor's Guide to Complete Vulvovaginal Health"

Lack of menstrual periods from low body weight

Low estrogen can also develop if body weight drops to a low level, usually less than 100 pounds (depending on height and frame). Controls in the hypothalamus (a part of the brain) shut down the hormones to the ovaries, and menstrual periods stop (amenorrhea). Hypothalamic amenorrhea can be seen in athletes, especially runners whose high levels of exercise drop weight below the level that the brain thinks is safe for reproduction. This type of amenorrhea is also seen in women who have anorexia. Restoring the weight will usually restore menstrual function. Vaginal estrogen helps with the dryness.