Impact of Eating Disorders on Reproductive Health and Consequences for the Skeletal System

Eating disorders are associated with high risk for negative long term reproductive and skeletal outcomes, especially during times of rapid growth and development.  This session will review how physiologic adaptive responses to chronic starvation and malnutrition lead to neuroendocrine abnormalities.  We will review guidance around clinical assessments, testing, and evidence based medical interventions to address reproductive and bone health sequalae.    

The target audience for this continuing education program is mental health providers and clinicians working with individuals with mental health diagnoses. Materials are appropriate for learners with an intermediate level of understanding about mental health concerns.  

Educational Objectives

• Describe the cascade of events that typically result in secondary amenorrhea, linear growth suppression, pubertal arrest, and hypogonadism.
• Identify when DEXA testing is indicated and how to interpret results.
• Review the interventions for eating disorder-related reproductive dysfunction and bone loss.

If you have questions about this event, or need more information, please reach out to Erin Oates at Erin.Oates@ERCPathlight.com