Expert: Melissa - 4/16/2008

Question
Hi, I was sick for almost 3 yrs, started out making myself sick then not eating and just working out, counting calories was an obsession, I am all better now, but often still think about it, I am 5'5 105LBS now, my lowest last summer was 87LBS, I am like I said better now, my question is, I haven't had my period in nearly 3 yrs, but at the end of march I woke up to cramps and spotting, I used to go to the gym a ton and cardio all the time 1 hr a day.
Back to my question, I just had a light period when it returned, I thought it would be worse when it finally came back, it lasted 3 days very light, will it come back again? this month? and will it be normal? I have cut cardio to 3 days a week only doing 45min now and on my boxflex 4 days weights. Please I hope you can answer this.

Thanks

Answer
Good Morning Gwen,
First let me say that it's amazing to hear you're making positive steps for yourself and your health. Keep it up!
As for your question, I can't really say for sure whether or not your period will return, but most likely it will. If you continue to maintain your weight your period should normalize over time. However, you are still underweight for your height and that will attribute to your bodies inability to ovulate. If it does return, it will probably be light for a few more months as your body adjusts to the changes. I would suggest cutting further down on your exercise if your period doesn't show up next month.
Does your doctor know about your eating disorder and amenorrhea? You should see him or her about this before making any major changes.
I hope this helped. Take care and keep me posted.