Medical Questions » Psychiatry Questions » Question No. 829
| Question: | In my late teenage years, I was a victim of anorexia nervosa and bulimia. I am now happily married, and worried about the long-term consequences of my earlier irresponsible behaviour. Could my fertility be affected? |
| Answer: | Anorexia nervosa is a psychiatric disorder in which the girl (almost invariably a teenager) refuses to eat, and loses weight dramatically. Bulimia is a related condition, in which latge amounts of food are eaten, and then regurgitated.
These are both very serious conditions that may persist for several years, and a significant proportion of the victims may die during that time.
Once the woman (very rarely are men affected) has recovered, regained her normal weight, and started menstruating regularly, there should be no long-term effects.
If you are having some irregularity or abnormality in your periods, it would be wise to consult a gynaecologist. Otherwise, it is unlikely that the anorexia nervosa or bulimia will have any effects on your future health.
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