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Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea

Meaning

Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea (FHA) is a reversible form of secondary amenorrhoea characterized by the cessation of menstruation due to non-organic, functional suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis. This condition is primarily triggered by energy imbalance, intense physical or psychological stress, or excessive exercise, all of which converge to suppress the pulsatile secretion of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH). FHA represents a critical survival mechanism where the reproductive system is temporarily shut down in response to perceived physiological threat or insufficient energy availability.