Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea



Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea (FHA) and Functional Hypothalamic Oligoamenorrhoea (FHOA) are conditions where periods become irregular (FHOA) or stop altogether (FHA) due to a disruption in the brain’s hormonal signals- specifically from the hypothalamus. This disruption isn’t caused by illness or physical damage but by stress on the body, which may come from under-eating, intense or frequent exercise, psychological stress, or a combination of these factors.

When the body senses it doesn’t have enough energy or is under threat, it puts non-essential functions like reproduction on hold. As a result, the normal hormonal cycle that leads to ovulation and menstruation is interrupted. Although often seen in athletes or those with low body weight, these conditions can affect women of any body size- especially when the body’s energy needs aren’t being fully met. This can lead to a wide range of problems, including absent periods, fertility problems, and an increased risk of brittle bones and heart disease.

The good news is that with the right support, these conditions are fully reversible. Recovery is possible through gentle, consistent changes that help the body feel safe, well-nourished, and balanced again.
Women who are diagnosed with FHA or FHOA are usually told to gain weight and stop exercising. A lot of women feel confused around how much to eat or what to eat to gain weight in a healthy way. Quitting exercise cold turkey can also be too stressful.

In addition to emotional challenges of bringing your period back, lots of women with FHA or FHOA also have to contend with underlying digestive issues and food intolerances that may have contributed to the condition in the first place. For many women, these digestive problems can make the process of weight restoration much harder. This can lead to fatigue, food-related anxiety and further weight loss.

I will support you to overcome these obstacles by providing you with science-based information and individualised advice on diet and lifestyle. Together, we will identify the changes that are needed to improve your health and recover your periods. I also offer ongoing support and motivation, so you can stay on track even when things gets tough.


What we can achieve working together:

  • Increase your confidence in nourishing yourself well
  • Set you on a path for recovering your periods and ovulation (important for fertility)
  • Get the balance between feeling ‘tired and wired’
  • Improve digestive symptoms
  • Feel OK about being more flexible around food and exercise


Here's a glimpse into some of the common themes we often explore:

  • physical and psychological stress on the menstrual cycle 
  • your ideal weight range 
  • the relationship between body weight/body fat mass and menstrual cycle
  • energy availability and your hormones
  • the macronutrients and meal patterns
  • vitamins and minerals
  • digestive complaints and intolerances
  • a healthy way to restore your menstrual cycles

Start your journey now