menstrual period and effect on health

[carolaeva]

I am underweight and only have a menstrual period every 6 months (2 times a year). I am 29 years old and other than the weight I am a very healthy athlete and have a high muscle content.  I do not want children- they are definitely not in my future, ever.  Other than loss of fertility (which I am not interested in anyway) is it unhealthy to NOT have a monthly period? What are the overall health risks, if any?

[carolaeva]

I was on birth control pills and they made me mentally insane. I was crying all the time and completely irrational., depressed and loopy I guess I should just gain some weight!!

[John Kim, M.D.]

Yes, there are definite health risks. It is not unheard of for athletes that do not get their period to have osteoporosis or osteopenia and stress fractures because their bones are not getting the estrogen they need for good bone strength and development. I highly recommend that you see your gynecologist to make sure the only reason that you are not getting your period is that you are underweight and if there is no other reason then that to get on some sort of estrogen replacement or birth control pills.