Can I get amenorrhea if I am not sexually active?

You do not have to be sexually active to experience amenorrhea. Although pregnancy is one of the most common causes of amenorrhea, there are many other conditions that can cause a lack of menstruation. Primary amenorrhea is diagnosed when menstruation has not started by age 16 and is usually caused by a genetic disorder or birth defect that stifles the effects of puberty. Other causes include: malnutrition, excessive exercise or excessive stress, illness, certain drugs, hormonal imbalances, uterine scarring, or even premature menopause. See your doctor about treatment options for any of these causes.