Anorexia/Eating Disorders/Menstrual Cycle

Advertisement

Expert: Jeanne Rust, PhD - 8/27/2009


Question
Hello Dr. Rust.

I was diagnosed with an eating disorder a few months ago.  This problem began about a year and a half ago.  It has been three months since I have gotten on my period.  In the last three months I have gained weight (going from 115 to 131) and I have only done so with hopes of getting on my period back.  Albeit I have had recurring episodes of binging and purging, I have gained a lot of weight and it's frustrating for me.  Is there an off-the-counter birth control pill I can purchase and use to get my period back?  Please help.  I appreciate your time.

Annette

Answer

Jeannie Rust, PhD
Dear Annette,

Thank you for writing!  I don't know of any over-the-counter medication that can help you menstruate again.  Can you go to your regular doctor?  I'm sure it's because of the former restricting and the current purging that has caused you physically to be really out of balance.

Since you've been diagnosed, have you had therapy with someone who specializes in eating disorders?  That would really be the best thing for you -- and for you to see your doctor.  I know this is really hard to do but it could make such a difference.  Some girls who have eating disorders and are unable to have their periods, are unable to have children later.

Please let me know how you do!

Warmly,
Jeannie Rust, PhD
www.mirasol.net
www.edrecovery.com

Jeanne Rust, PhD

Expertise

I have been treating eating disorders for over 25 years and I have a doctorate in clinical psychology. I am an expert in anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorders and in co-occurring disorders as well -- depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, etc. I was the official eating disorder therapist for the University of Arizona athletic department and love working with girls and women of all ages! 12 years ago I started my own treatment centers in Arizona where we treat adolescents and adults. I love working with people and have been helping people online since 1994. My hearts go out to the people out there who are unable to find help, who aren't sure whether they need help, and who don't have much of an understanding of the terrible consequences, emotionally and physically, that go hand in hand with the eating disorder. I view eating disorders as coping mechanisms that people use when they are under stress. I believe that eating disorders most times have many similarities whether it is anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating. The good news is that people can heal from an eating disorder and learn to create the lives they would like to live.

Experience

I have 25 years of experience in treating eating disorders of all kinds. I also do consultations for people who are starting treatment centers.

Education/Credentials
Northwestern University -- BA Masters in Counseling Doctorate in Clinical Psychology -- Saybrook institute

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.