Everything related to our health narrows down to what we consume. The healthier we eat, the healthier our body is – inside out! Of course, there are other factors at play, such as sleep habits, lifestyle, stress etc., which can all be responsible for good or bad health conditions. While there are plenty ways our body can be affected by the food we consume, one of the lesser-known effects is on fertility. Did you know how the food you eat can make it harder or simpler to have children?
Eating Disorders and Their Impact on the Body
Various eating disorders like bulimia, binge eating, anorexia can lead to deprivation of essential nutrients, and overtime can affect hormones and the reproductive system.
- Bulimia Nervosa: Purging behaviour can cause hormonal imbalances and irregular menstrual cycles, eventually disrupting ovulation.
- Binge-Eating: Binging has never done anything good to the body, and can mess with the hormone levels, especially by adding to the body weight, thereby affecting ovulation.
- Anorexia Nervosa: People with anorexia often eat very little and have very low body fat, which in turn reduce estrogen that controls the menstrual cycle. Without enough estrogen, there may be a significant impact on the period, making it difficult to get pregnant.
In absence of nutrients, the body sets itself into survival mode, which is why people with eating disorders may experience:
- Missed or irregular periods: Amenorrhea is common in anorexia. Irregular periods can greatly disrupt ovulation.
- No ovulation: Without ovulation, pregnancy is not possible.
- Poor sperm quality in men: Men with eating disorders can also experience hormonal changes that affect fertility.
Emotional Effects of Infertility
Infertility is not easy, but it can feel even harder for those with eating disorders. Most are already dealing with overeating, obesity, purging behaviour etc. Blaming themselves for infertility will add to the woes. All of this can lead to stress, which is a significant cause of many other health problems. It is important that you get support and work through these feelings with guidance.
Steps to Help with Fertility
If you are suffering from an eating disorder while also experiencing infertility, all is not lost, there is hope! With the right guidance, you can reverse the changes and recover from the disorder, giving you a chance to become a parent.
- See a doctor: A doctor can check your overall health and fertility, and guide you with the subsequent steps. They may also refer you to specialists if needed.
- Increase nutrition: A dietitian can chart out a diet that will support recovery and fertility.
- Seek therapy: Therapy can work wonders, especially when you have a fresh perspective to your problems. A therapist who understands your eating disorders can help you deal with emotions like guilt or anxiety while ensuring you develop a healthy relationship with food and your body.
- Patience: Healing takes time. Once you are determined to win this battle, give your body the time it needs to fully recover and regain fertility. This may take months or even years sometimes.
Healing
Eating disorders and infertility are closely connected showing how important it is for you to nurture your mind and body for a healthier you. Getting rid of an eating disorder isn’t only about improving fertility but about feeling healthy.
You’re not alone in this journey of healing, and you deserve a hale and hearty future, full of happiness. So, step up and choose a healthy life today!
