What Are the Potential Causes of Not Having Periods for Years?

When you don't have periods for a long time, it is known as long-term amenorrhea. One common reason is natural menopause (at 45-55 years old) when the body stops making the hormones that cause periods; this is expected as you get older. Some women also have conditions that affect the hormones in the brain or ovaries, like problems with the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, which can cause periods to stop. For younger women, low body weight or high levels of stress can lead to what is called hypothalamic amenorrhea, where the brain reduces signals to the ovaries. Additionally, some women choose to use hormonal medicines or devices, like certain birth control methods, that intentionally suppress menstruation. In other cases, issues like ovarian failure or other endocrine disorders might be responsible. While each of these causes is different, if you haven’t had periods for years and are unsure why, it is a good idea to talk with a doctor. They can evaluate your situation, check your hormone levels, and help determine the best next steps.