New Global Registry Sheds Light on Hypothalamic Amenorrhea in Active Women
A groundbreaking international research initiative is finally bringing visibility to a condition that affects countless women worldwide, hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA). The newly launched REVEAL registry is the first global database dedicated to studying HA and its root causes.
HA occurs when the brain's hormonal signals shut down the menstrual cycle due to factors like chronic stress, under-fueling, low body weight, or excessive exercise. It’s especially common among active women and athletes—yet it remains widely misunderstood and often misdiagnosed.
What Is the REVEAL Registry?
The REVEAL registry is an international research effort aimed at identifying the prevalence, risk factors, and physiological patterns associated with hypothalamic amenorrhea.
The study includes:
A three-month tracking period using Fitbit
Hormone testing
Comprehensive questionnaires around exercise, nutrition, body image, and lifestyle stress
More than 100 participants from over 25 countries have already enrolled, making this one of the largest HA data collections ever conducted.
Why This Matters for Women's Health
HA is often dismissed by both women and healthcare providers as “normal” for athletes or high performers. But missing periods is a major red flag for underlying hormonal imbalance. Without proper treatment, HA can lead to:
Infertility
Osteoporosis
Cardiovascular issues
Disordered eating
Emotional burnout
The REVEAL registry not only aims to gather critical data but also intends to collaborate with the World Health Organization to increase global awareness and improve clinical care.
Why Hypothalamic Amenorrhea Is Still Underdiagnosed
One major issue surrounding HA is the lack of education in both public and medical spaces. Many women are told that losing their period due to stress or athleticism is just part of being "fit"—when in reality, it’s a sign of hormonal dysfunction.
This registry brings hope that the more we learn, the better tools and guidance we can provide to women who are struggling with:
Chronic undereating
Overtraining
Perfectionism and high performance stress
Hormonal symptoms like low libido, fatigue, and amenorrhea
How to Support the Research
If you've experienced hypothalamic amenorrhea or are currently on a recovery journey, participating in this kind of research can help shape the future of women's hormonal health.
💡 Learn more about the REVEAL registry and how to enroll here
(You don’t need a diagnosis to participate—just a missing period for 3+ months unrelated to pregnancy or birth control.)
The REVEAL registry is a huge step forward in putting hypothalamic amenorrhea on the map. With better data, we can push for better care—and help more women reclaim their health, cycles, and strength.
If you’ve lost your period and aren’t sure why, this research reinforces what many already know: it’s not just in your head, and it’s absolutely worth getting to the root cause.
Cheering You On !
Cynthia
