Re: 90 Days Since LMP

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>Are there other reasons besides stress that may cause delay or lack of
>ovulation?

There are many reasons why periods are abnormal. The most common is "anovulation," where the egg is not released on time. Without an egg, a corpus luteum cyst does not form, there is insufficient progesterone production, and the lining of the uterus does not slough off as a menstrual period. Instead, the lining just continues to build, until a very heavy "period" occurs (it's actually not a true period, but rather heavy bleeding. The term period implies every month). Unfortunately, this may develop "just because" in a perfectly normal patient, which is very frustrating. However, some conditions can cause anovulation and need to be investigated.

Sometimes an abnormality of the thyroid, hypothyroidism, can cause this. In other cases a condition leading to increased prolactin production causes delayed periods. Two blood tests can diagnose these conditions.

Stress can indeed mess up periods, but this is one of the least likely diagnoses. Significant weight loss, very intense physical activity (ie training for Olympics), and being very overweight (increased estrogen production) can all cause wacky periods.

Three months without a period is abnormal. It's probably not a serious condition, but how will you know? Since you are trying to become pregnant, I would encourage your doctor to investigate this situation in more detail. I'm sure if you speak with him or her about your concerns, he or she will take note. If not, this is not a reassuring sign, and I would suggest switching to a doctor who takes your concerns more seriously.

Best of luck,

--
Ashley Hill
David Ashley Hill, M.D.
Associate Director
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Florida Hospital Family Practice Residency
Orlando, FL
http://home.mpinet.net/dahmd

The above is intended for general medical education,
and is not for specific medical advice.
I apologize, but I am unable to answer personal e-mail
due to time constraints.

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