Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
oligomenorrhea
Pronunciation: oh-li-go-men-oh-REE-ah
Infrequent menstrual periods occurring more than 35 days apart in adolescents.
Full Definition
Oligomenorrhea refers to infrequent menstrual cycles occurring at intervals greater than 35 days but less than 6 months in adolescents. This condition is common in the first two years after menarche due to immature hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. Persistent oligomenorrhea beyond this period may indicate underlying conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, thyroid disorders, or stress-related amenorrhea. Clinical evaluation includes menstrual history, physical examination, and appropriate laboratory studies.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from amenorrhea (absence of periods) and polymenorrhea (frequent periods).
In Context
- "The 16-year-old presented with oligomenorrhea and required evaluation for underlying causes." — Gynecology consultation note
- "Oligomenorrhea in the first year post-menarche was considered within normal variation." — Adolescent health assessment
Also known as
infrequent periods
Contrasted with
polymenorrhea
regular menses
Don't confuse with
amenorrhea
dysmenorrhea
polymenorrhea