[44F] Experiencing Amenorrhea with Hormonal Imbalances

Patient Description

A 44-year-old female presents with a 2-year history of amenorrhea despite having normal estrogen, FSH, and LH levels. She has elevated prolactin and testosterone levels. The patient has gained 20 lbs in the past 6 months without significant changes to a regular diet consisting of lean meat, vegetables, fruits, pasta, and some bread. Prior to the amenorrhea, she had regular menstrual cycles that were heavy and painful. She suffers from migraine headaches with aura, occurring twice per month and lasting about 3 hours, with a pain severity of 6/10. These migraines are accompanied by light and sound sensitivity. Ibuprofen provides some relief. The patient also experiences ocular migraines but has no increase in body or facial hair or acne. She has myopia and presbyopia but no sudden severe headaches, vision loss, or double vision.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be contributing to your symptoms:

  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This condition is characterized by high levels of male hormones (androgens), irregular or missed periods (amenorrhea), and often, multiple small cysts in the ovaries. Weight gain and high testosterone levels are common in PCOS. However, you mentioned that you do not have increased body or facial hair or acne, which are also common in PCOS.

    • Treatment often involves lifestyle changes like a healthy diet and regular exercise. Medications may also be prescribed to manage symptoms or to help with fertility if desired.
  • Hyperprolactinemia: This is a condition characterized by higher-than-normal levels of the hormone prolactin in the blood. Prolactin is produced by the pituitary gland and one of its main roles is to help women produce milk after childbirth. High levels in a woman who is not pregnant or nursing could lead to irregular or missed periods (amenorrhea).

    • Treatment usually involves medications to lower prolactin levels.
  • Migraines: Migraines are a type of headache characterized by severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, usually on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. You mentioned having migraines with aura, which are migraines that are preceded or accompanied by a sensory warning sign (aura), such as flashes of light, blind spots, or tingling in your arm or leg.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks.

What you can do

  1. Consult a healthcare provider: It's important to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider who can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary.

  2. Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help manage symptoms of PCOS and can contribute to overall health.

  3. Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage migraine pain. If these are not effective, your healthcare provider may prescribe stronger medications.

What you should look out for

  • If your migraines become more frequent or severe
  • If you experience sudden, severe headaches
  • If you experience vision changes such as vision loss or double vision
  • If you notice any new symptoms, such as increased body or facial hair, acne, or changes in your weight

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare provider.

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People Also Ask


What could cause elevated prolactin levels in someone who is not pregnant or nursing?

Elevated prolactin levels in someone who is not pregnant or nursing can be caused by a variety of factors, including pituitary gland disorders, certain medications, thyroid issues, and stress. It's important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.


How can Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affect menstrual cycles and weight?

PCOS can lead to irregular or missed periods due to hormonal imbalances, specifically elevated levels of androgens like testosterone. It can also cause weight gain due to insulin resistance, which is common in PCOS. Managing weight through diet and exercise can help alleviate some symptoms.


What are the common symptoms and triggers of migraines with aura?

Migraines with aura are characterized by sensory disturbances such as visual changes (flashes of light, blind spots), tingling in the limbs, or difficulty speaking, which occur before the headache phase. Common triggers include stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, and lack of sleep.


What lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of PCOS and migraines?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage PCOS and migraines include maintaining a balanced diet rich in whole foods, regular physical activity, stress management techniques, and ensuring adequate sleep. These changes can help regulate hormones and reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.


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