Expert: Ginger M. - 8/27/2008

Question
Hi
I was diagnosed with anorexia last year, having restricted my food intake for about 4 years. I am still underweight and have only had 1 period in the last 20 months (in Janurary this year, so that was 8 months ago). I just want to know whether my period will come back if I get to a normal weight or whether there is a chance that I wont ever get it back, because it has been gone for so long.
I just want to know whether it is even worth bothering to try and get it back, if it wont come anyway.

Answer
Hi Katie,

This happened to me, too. People with anorexia lose their periods when their body fat percentage gets very low, and estrogen levels lower, too. Your period will come back when you put on some weight, but it could take some time before it becomes regular again (if you take the pill, it might help regulate it). Also, not having your period due to anorexia could put you at higher risk for osteoporosis, according to doctors I know and things I've read about it, and apparently you can't regain the lost bone density, even when your period comes back. Osteoporosis means brittle bones that break easily.

I'm so happy that you you are considering trying to get your period back- it's a challenge, but for the sake of your health (and the health of any babies you might want to have!) it's one of the best decisions you'll ever make. Like one of my doctors said to me: if someone is average size and they put on weight, it could be considered extra pounds. If the person is underweight and isn't even getting her period, and she puts some weight on, it isn't extra pounds- it's health. Don't think of eating as helping you gain weight, think of it as helping you gain health. That made a lot of sense to me.

Keep strong, and I'm here if you need me!

Ginger