Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea in Adolescent girls as a Result of Stress-Related Conditions in Covid-19 Pandemic Situation

Abstract

Functional hypothalamic amenorrhoea (FHA) is a form of anovulation due to the suppression of HypothalamicPituitary-Ovarian (HPO) axis, not related to identifiable organic cause. FHA is a state of hormonal imbalance related to stress, exercising too much or consuming too few calories. In the unprecedented Covid-I9 Pandemic, there is an upsurge of FHA in adolescent girls. Being confined to ‘stay at home’, the phobia of gaining weight due to restricted movement is often triggering eating disorders like Anorexia Nervosa(AN);indulging in indoor overexercise, stress associated with routine change, exposure and preoccupations with social media in the changed scenario are causing a disruption of HPO axis manifesting as FHA. But FHA has serious short-term and longterm effects on the physical and mental health of the adolescent individuals. The present article aims at reviewing the causes, effects, evaluation and management of FHA in the present scenario. Adolescent girls with FHA should be carefully diagnosed and properly managed to prevent both short-term and long-term deleterious effects with appropriate and timely intervention.