Expert: Nafeesah - 3/2/2009

Question
Hi, Nafeesah! Okay, so I had a "diet" spell for about a year when I was 14 and went from 120lbs to about 98lbs. It took a lot, but by the time I was 17 I was 106 and decided I wanted to lose a bit again. I only planned on 5lbs, but after cutting my calories to 750-800 a day from December 2007 to April 2008 I ended up at 88lbs instead. I've been eating a lot better ever since--first at 1200, then 1400, then 1600 and now 1800 calories. Even so, I haven't had my period since January 2008 (almost 14 months) and my lymph nodes are really swollen. I'm 5'6" and currently 96lbs. When will I get my period back? Am I infertile?

Answer
Eating disorders can cause women to have issues with fertility, but if you get to your doctor and find out why your lymph nodes are swollen. If you havent had a period in over a year that's a sign your hormones and body chemistry is off and you need to see an endocrinologist to get tested to find out exactly what is going on so they can treat the problem and help you get back on track. I believe the constant weight gain and loss has thrown your body off course hormononally, but with a sensible treatment plan you should have yourself back to normal in no time. Make an appointment to see your doctor right away because swollen lymph nodes can indicate a hormone problem.