Case 3 – Amenorrhea

You are seeing Cindy Albrecht, a 19 year old female, for amenorrhea. Please take a focused history for her complaint.

History

  • Distinguishes primary vs. secondary amenorrhea (patient has had previous menstrual periods)
  • Age of menarche
  • Onset of last menstrual period
  • Amount and changes in flow in recent menstrual periods
  • Length of menstrual period
  • Menorrhagia
  • Dysmenorrhea
  • Current use of birth control pills or other oral hormones
  • Presence of vaginal discharge/itching
  • Morning sickness
  • Abdominal pain/discomfort
  • Recent dieting
  • Recent fractures
  • Excessive exercise
  • Galactorrhea
  • Symptoms of hyperthyroidism (sweating, palpitations, heat intolerance)
  • Symptoms of hypothyroidism (feels slow, cold intolerance, constipation)
  • Symptoms of hypoestrogen state (hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness)
  • Personal history of chronic disease
  • Pregnancy history
  • Current and past sexual history, including partners, method of intercourse, and contraception
  • Smoking and alcohol history
  • Family history of genetic abnormalities and infertility
Case 3 – Amenorrhea