What term describes the absence of menstruation for three cycles or more?

The term that describes the absence of menstruation for three cycles or more is secondary amenorrhea. This condition occurs when a woman who has been having normal menstrual cycles stops menstruating for a duration of three months or more. It is important to differentiate secondary amenorrhea from primary amenorrhea, which refers to the absence of menstruation by age 15 in someone who has not begun menstruating.

Secondary amenorrhea can result from a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, significant weight loss or gain, excessive exercise, and underlying medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome or thyroid disorders. Understanding the context of secondary amenorrhea is crucial for correctly diagnosing and managing the underlying causes.

In contrast to the other terms, oligomenorrhea refers to infrequent menstrual periods, while menorrhagia describes unusually heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. Neither of these terms pertains to the complete absence of menstrual cycles, which underscores the significance of identifying secondary amenorrhea specifically.