eating disorders & menstruation
understanding eating disorders
Eating disorders are mental health disorders that have extreme eating habits and distorted self-image.
Common types include:
Anorexia Nervosa: Severely limited food intake and intense fear of weight gain.
Bulimia Nervosa: Binge eating followed by purging.
Binge-Eating Disorder: Frequent overeating without purging.
Who does it affect?
Gender: Eating Disorders primarily affect women, but 25-30 per cent of all cases are reported to involve men.
Age: Usually between the ages of 12-25 years.
Demographics: Eating disorders can affect people of all races and classes.
Causes and Risk Factors
Exploring the Roots of Eating Disorders
• Genetics: Family history increases risk.
• Cultural Pressures: The media sells an idea the thinner you are, the better ideals may
lead to body dissatisfaction.
• Mental Health: An eating disorder is associated with anxiety, depression, and low self-
esteem.
• Trauma and Stress: Personal trauma may lead to the onset of symptoms of disordered
eating.
• Dieting: diets and weight culture may enhance the risk of developing an eating disorder.
Understanding the Menstrual Cycle
The Connection Between Menstrual Health and Eating Disorders
Menstrual Cycle and Reproductive Health
The menstrual cycle is a natural, monthly endeavour of the female body to prepare for pregnancy; this usually lasts approximately 28 days. It includes phases such as:
• (Days 1-13): At the beginning of menstruation, the body produces the follicle-stimulating hormone, which develops and matures the eggs in the ovaries.
• (Day 14): An egg is released due to the increase in the level of hormones.
• (Days 15-28): Progesterone prepares the uterus lining for pregnancy.
Hormonal changes throughout the cycle, like rising estrogen and progesterone, generally keep the menstrual process going. However, poor nutrition, low body weight, and high-stress levels can affect these hormone cycles, affecting regular periods. Amenorrhea is the is the absence of menstruation. Nutritionally speaking, individuals, especially those with eating disorders and severe food restrictions, very well create an inability for the body to continue with the menstrual cycle as it should.
Hormonal Imbalance
Low body weight and poor nutrition reduce fat reserves required to produce hormones such as estrogen. An imbalance of such hormones results in irregular periods, negatively affecting overall reproductive health.
EMOTIONAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSEQUENCES:
Malnutrition and hormonal imbalance can lead to psychological distress, including anxiety and depression. The physical effects of disordered eating often compound these emotional challenges.
Treating menstrual disorders linked to eating disorders requires a multi-disciplinary approach. Medical professionals, such as gynaecologists, endocrinologists, and nutritionists, work together to address the physical symptoms. Additionally, therapy and counselling are essential for managing the emotional and psychological aspects of the disorder.
Short-term Consequences
Irregular or absent periods: Most times, when one has disordered eating, it causes menstrual problems because of low body fat and imbalances in hormones.
Hormones changes
Hormonal Changes: Ups and downs in reproductive hormones affect menstrual health.
Long-term Consequences
Infertility: Eating disorders can result in infertility.
Pregnancy Issues: There is a greater chance of miscarriage, premature birth to children, and low birth weight.
Early Menopause: This may lead to early menopause and is linked to health risks.
Psychological Consequences
Anxiety and Depression: Malnutrition from not eating and hormonal imbalance creates emotional distress that leads to anxiety and depression.
Start Your Healing Journey
Hello! I’m Becky Stone, a qualified therapist based in Canterbury, Kent. With extensive experience in mental health, helping individuals become the best version of themselves.
Ready to start your journey to a healthier you?
Book a free 20-minute informal chat with an experienced counsellor and clinical supervisor specialising in Eating Disorder treatment and therapy in Canterbury, Kent. Let’s work together towards a better version of you.
I look forward to meeting you!
Getting Help
Getting Help and Treatment Options Medical treatment for menstrual disorders, brought on by eating disorders, requires a team of gynaecologists, endocrinologists, and nutritionists. It is essential that therapy, counselling, and support groups cope with the emotional and psychological state of mind caused by eating disorders and their effects on reproductive health. Therefore, recovery mainly deals with healthy weight gain and proper nutrition to restore hormonal balance and normalise the menstrual cycle. Open conversations about menstruation can reduce the stigma and promote general health. Getting people to talk about the issue brings awareness.
Understanding the Impact
Conclusion on Eating Disorders and Reproductive Health
Eating disorders can severely disrupt menstrual health, leading to potential infertility and other reproductive issues due to malnutrition and hormonal imbalances. These conditions are often compounded by mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression, making recovery more complex.
Raising awareness and offering support to those affected is crucial. Early intervention through medical treatment, therapy, and community support can significantly aid in restoring both physical and emotional well-being, paving the way for effective recovery.
Get In Touch
Call
(075)-491-9967
beckywhocares1@outlook.com
