Several factors can cause a girl's period to stop, ranging from normal physiological changes to underlying medical conditions. Let's explore some key reasons:
Natural Causes & Life Stages:
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Menopause: Menopause, the natural cessation of menstruation, typically occurs between ages 45 and 55. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia explains this as a normal body change.
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Pregnancy: Pregnancy is a common reason for missed periods.
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Stress: High levels of stress can disrupt the hormonal balance necessary for regular menstruation. nidirect highlights stress as a potential cause.
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Weight Changes: Sudden weight loss or significant weight gain can impact hormonal levels and menstrual cycles. nidirect mentions both as factors.
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Excessive Exercise: Extreme over-exercising can interfere with hormonal regulation and menstruation. nidirect notes this as a potential cause.
Medical and Lifestyle Factors:
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Birth Control: Certain types of contraception, including the progestogen-only pill, contraceptive injection, and intrauterine system (IUS), can cause periods to stop or become irregular. Some types of contraception
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Medications: Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, can affect menstrual cycles and lead to amenorrhea (absence of menstruation). Chapel Hill OBGYN lists these as a possibility.
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Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can disrupt menstrual cycles. Consulting a doctor is crucial to identify and address these.
Things That Don't Stop Your Period:
It's crucial to dispel some common myths: Cleveland Clinic clarifies that methods like drinking lemon juice, salt water, or vinegar, taking ibuprofen, or using the morning-after pill do not reliably stop your period.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
If you experience a significant change in your menstrual cycle, including cessation of periods, consult a doctor to rule out any underlying medical issues.