The Overlooked Intersection of Menopause and Eating Disorders

When you think of eating disorders, you might picture a young girl struggling with anorexia. While this is a common stereotype, eating disorders can affect people of any age, gender, or background. Puberty is a well-known risk period for developing eating disorders, but another critical life stage that can trigger these conditions is menopause.

Menopause is a natural transition for women and people with ovaries, marking the end of reproductive functioning. This phase, typically around age 51, brings hormonal changes that can significantly affect eating behaviors and body image. The perimenopausal stage, which can start up to 10 years before menopause, is marked by fluctuating ovarian function and menstrual cycles.

The hormonal shifts during menopause can increase the risk of developing or worsening eating disorders. About 3.5% of people in the menopausal phase experience eating disorders, which often complicate recognizing the menopausal transition due to symptoms like irregular periods and low estrogen levels.

Recognizing the lack of support and education for midlife women with eating disorders, Associate Professor Gemma Sharp and her team, including Professor Susan Davis, have created an online resource to address this issue. Sharp highlights the gap in attention given to menopause-related eating disorders compared to those in adolescence.

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Menopause can profoundly impact how women perceive their bodies and their overall sense of self. By shining a light on this often-overlooked intersection, Sharp’s team aims to provide the necessary support and information to help women navigate these challenging transitions.

Q&A

Q: What is menopause, and how does it affect women?

A: Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, typically occurring around age 51, when ovarian and reproductive functioning decline, leading to the end of menstrual cycles.

Q: What is perimenopause, and how does it differ from menopause?

A: Perimenopause, also known as “around menopause,” can start up to 10 years before menopause. During this phase, women may experience irregular menstrual cycles and hormonal fluctuations as ovarian function begins to decline.

Q: How can menopause increase the risk of eating disorders?

A: The hormonal changes during menopause can lead to shifts in eating behaviors and body image perception, increasing the risk of developing or worsening eating disorders.

Q: What are some common eating disorders associated with menopause?

A: Eating disorders commonly associated with menopause include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.

Q: How can women recognize the symptoms of eating disorders during menopause?

A: Symptoms of eating disorders during menopause may include irregular menstrual periods, low estrogen levels, changes in eating habits, and negative body image.

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Q: What resources are available to support women experiencing eating disorders during menopause?

A: Online resources, support groups, counseling services, and healthcare professionals specializing in women’s health can provide support and guidance for women navigating eating disorders during menopause.