Understanding Anorexia through its 10 Symptoms

4. Irregular Periods

One of the diagnostic criteria for anorexia for women is the loss of menstrual periods for at least three months. In anorexics, severe weight loss reduces fat stores in the body, which in turn reduces thyroid levels and results in an increase in the stress hormone cortisol. This state, known as hypercortisolism, then reduces reproductive hormones. When reproductive hormones are insufficient to regulate the monthly menstrual cycle, amenorrhea, or the cessation of monthly periods, occurs. Periods may even stop altogether, or women with anorexia may never start their periods, especially if they began having eating problems when they were quite young. Some women with anorexia may become infertile and unable to have a baby.