Understanding Menstrual Irregularities in Eating Disorders: Importance and Insights for Anorexia and Bulimia Therapy
Amenorrhea as a result of Anorexia or Bulimia
When a female struggles with an Eating Disorder, the impact often extends to her menstrual cycle. Recognizing any deviation in your normal menstrual patterns or loss of periods entirely is cause for concern. As an eating disorder therapist that offers both anorexia therapy and bulimia therapy, these changes are imperative for me to know. These changes serve as an indicator that something isn't right—there's a deficiency in nourishment that is leading to your reproductive system to begin shutting down. Since your reproductive system is not a system required for your survival, your body will reallocate the limited resources you have to other parts of the body that are more crucial for survival such as your nervous and circulatory systems. The scientific term for the loss of one’s menstrual cycle is called Amenorrhea. Amenorrhea is your body’s way of communicating to you that something is wrong and it must be addressed.
When Anorexia or Bulimia Causes Amenorrhea
Amenorrhea is a sign of other parts of the body not functioning correctly and that certain health markers not being met. For example, Amenorrhea informs us that your bone density is at risk because, similarly to your reproductive system, this is not absolutely necessary for survival. Your bones are breaking down at a faster pace than your peers and depending on your age, your bone density ceases to grow. For young women under the age of 25, you should be experiencing bone density growth and if you are experiencing Amenorrhea, this bone growth stops happening and we can’t make up for this loss. This can lead to long-term bone issues including ailments such as Osteopenia and early-onset Osteoporosis. These are just some of the other problems that coincide with the loss of your menstrual cycle. There are many others and a medical doctor would be best to delve into all of the impacts that Amenorrhea consists of.
Variations in Menstrual Cycles Caused by Anorexia or Bulimia
It is important to note that not everyone who struggles with anorexia, bulimia or disordered eating experiences menstrual disruptions. Amidst equally struggling individuals, factors like behaviors, height, weight and underlying health can cause varied outcomes including:
Some may lose their periods entirely.
Others might begin with having cycle irregularities which differ from their normal cycle.
And there are those who continue with regular cycles.
This difference in how sufferers are affected doesn't imply varying severity; rather, it is better explained by the uniqueness of our bodies. Much like healthy peers, where menstrual patterns vary greatly, individuals battling anorexia or bulimia also will have varying degrees of how their menstrual cycle is affected or not affected.
The Importance of Anorexia Therapy & Bulimia Therapy
Now, this important question arises: When does anorexia or bulimia typically lead to menstrual irregularities? There's no definitive timeline and I’ve seen significant varying degrees of impact. I've witnessed cases where periods ceased within a month of disorder onset, while for others, it took a year, and some have never encountered disruptions, but nevertheless, are suffering immensely.
Understanding menstrual irregularities serves as a piece of the puzzle, NOT the entire picture. Menstrual irregularities is merely something we can use to help gage your disorder and what treatment may be necessary. Anorexia therapy or Bulimia therapy will be a crucial part in helping you to deal with the process of recovery and in getting your cycle back.
Hence, it's imperative to monitor your menstrual cycle vigilantly. Any anomalies warrant prompt medical attention. Additionally, if grappling with disordered eating, anorexia, or bulimia symptoms, proactive communication with healthcare providers is paramount.
Seek Anorexia Therapy or Bulimia Therapy Now
For those fortunate to retain regular cycles, it's not necessarily a reassurance of well-being. Getting your period doesn't negate the need for assistance—seeking help via anorexia therapy or bulimia therapy is imperative regardless of menstrual regularity.
In conclusion, understanding menstrual irregularities offers invaluable insights into eating disorders. It underscores the need for tailored therapy, emphasizing early intervention and holistic recovery.
For specialized anorexia or bulimia therapy and support, reach out to professionals who understand and are experienced with the intricacies of eating disorder treatment.
If you believe you may be struggling with anorexia or bulimia, please don’t wait until your menstrual cycle is impacted to get help. Click here to submit a contact form in order to set up your free 15-minute phone consultation call with me, an Anorexia & Bulimia Therapist, to see how I can help you recover.
*Disclaimer* - I am not a medical doctor and this post does not constitute as medical advice. This post is derived from my experience working with clients who struggle with Anorexia & Bulimia, research and collaborating with medical professionals.