Other Treatments for Amenorrhea
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Counseling
If your amenorrhea is caused by an eating disorder, excessive exercise, or high levels of stress, you may want to consider working with a therapist. There are several different types of therapy available to you. Talk with a therapist to determine which type will work for you. Some examples include:
Cognitive-behavioral Therapy (CBT)
This type of therapy will help you examine your feelings and thought patterns, learn to interpret them in a more realistic way, and apply various coping techniques to real-life situations.
Interpersonal Therapy
Interpersonal therapy may help you understand and cope with concerns about your relationships that may be causing or worsening stress in your life. This therapy can also help improve your communication skills and self-esteem.
Group Support
There are many types of group therapy; groups may be part of an inpatient or outpatient program, be led by a private therapist, or exist independently. Topics may include coping strategies, body image, nutrition information, spirituality, family issues, art therapy, or a combination of topics.
Family Therapy
Complex family behaviors and attitudes often play a role in eating disorders and stress. Many people cannot recover unless their families recognize their roles in the problem and make changes. Close family members need to understand the disorder and support the patient.
References:
American Society for Reproductive Medicine website. Available at: http://www.arm.org/ . Accessed February 28, 2006.
National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/ . Accessed February 28, 2006.
Last reviewed February 2007 by Jeff Andrews, MD, FRCSC, FACOG
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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