Missed Period & Possible Pregnancy: Causes & What to Do

Question
Its been almost 3 months since I had my last period. I have taken multiple pregnancy tests since the first missed period and they have all came back negative. Is there a chance I am pregnant?

Answer
Dear Jessica,

There are many various causes for amenorrhea (absence of periods) - pregnancy being just one. Others can be:
-Emotional or physical stress / Depression
-Rapid weight loss or gain
-Low body weight
-Obesity
-Frequent or strenuous exercise
-Cysts or tumors in the ovaries
-Thyroid or Pituitary dysfunction
-Certain medications or drug use
-Menopause OR Premature ovarian failure (menopause before age 40)
-Occasionally stopping birth control pills

The general recommendation is that if you miss three consecutive periods and pregnancy is not the reason, you should see your doctor so that a cause can be determined. More than likely your doctor will do a quantitative blood pregnancy test (serum beta hCG) to make sure that pregnancy is ruled out as an option.

I hope that this information has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda