Missing a period happens to many women. The medical term for this is amenorrhea. If you miss a period you should not be alarmed because it does not always mean you are pregnant. Many things can lead to having or missing menstruation.

Menstruation occurs when the uterus lining sheds each month. It is also know as PMS (Pre Menstrual Syndrome). Menstruation typically lasts for 5 to 7 days. There are several things that must be working properly for a woman to have regular periods. The pituitary gland, uterus, hypothalamus and ovaries must be healthy and working. If the vagina and cervix have any deformities then there might also be a problem with the menstrual blood being able to pass through properly.

If you have any concerns about a missing period then you should seek a diagnosis from your doctor or gynecologist. They will go over your complete medical history and give you a full physical exam. A pelvic examination is also necessary most of the time. Once your doctor has ruled out medicines you are taking, other medical problems and menstrual disorder's they will be able to give you an accurate diagnosis.

The doctor will also have to determine whether you are carrying a baby or not. You cannot be considered to have amenorrhea unless you have missed at least three periods without being pregnant.

Teenage girls should be having periods by the age of 16. If they have not had one by then they should be taken to the doctor right away. Catching amenorrhea early is important because it makes successful treatment much easier.

The type of treatment that is recommended for you will be determined by your age, health, medical history and how serious your condition is. Sometimes amenorrhea can be handled with medication while other times therapies are required. Typical medicines that are prescribed for amenorrhea are birth control pills or anti-anflammatories. Hormone replacement therapy is also commonly used to restore regular periods. A simple thing that can be done is to increase the calories and fat that are consumed each day.

Conventional medicine does not actually treat the root problem but the symptoms. Natural remedies are a good choice if you are looking to treat the underlying problem. Vitex agnus-castus helps to keep your hormones in balance. Black cohosh is an herb that helps to keep your menstruation regular.

Your doctor or homeopath will be able to help you make a plan to get everything back to normal. Stay positive and be open to anything they might suggest. If you are unsure about what they say then seek a second opinion.

Dee Braun, a single mom of 6, is a Cert. Aromatherapist & natural health practitioner. Click now to visit Natural Holistic Health Blog which offers info on more natural home remedies & healing techniques for common health, emotional ailments & conditions at http://www.Natural-Holistic-Health.com/