What is the most common cause of secondary amenorrhea?

• A. Stress
• B. Pregnancy
• C. Hormonal Imbalance
• D. Thyroid Disorders

Answer: (B)

Pregnancy is indeed the most common cause of secondary amenorrhea. In this context, secondary amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstrual periods for three cycles or more in a woman who has previously had normal menstrual cycles. When a woman becomes pregnant, the hormonal changes, particularly the increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), lead to the cessation of ovulation and menstruation. This biological response is natural and necessary for supporting a developing fetus.

In terms of prevalence, the likelihood of a woman experiencing secondary amenorrhea due to pregnancy is significantly higher compared to other potential causes. While stress, hormonal imbalances, and thyroid disorders can also lead to secondary amenorrhea, they are generally less common compared to pregnancy, especially in women of reproductive age. Therefore, recognizing pregnancy as the leading cause provides a clear insight into the mechanisms underlying menstrual dysfunction in this population.