A loss of appetite is not feeling hungry and not wanting to eat. While this condition is common during bouts of mild illness, if it persists over time, it might indicate a more serious physical or mental condition. A loss of appetite may also occur during various times of a woman's life, such as during pregnancy, after childbirth or after menopause. If you feel unable to eat for more than a few days or if you experience unintentional weight loss, see your doctor for an evaluation.
Pregnancy and Beyond
One of the first symptoms of pregnancy that women often experience is a loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. While this usually wanes by the end of the first trimester, some women experience morning sickness throughout pregnancy. After childbirth, many women experience a temporary loss of appetite. If it persists, a reduced appetite might be a symptom of postpartum depression. Other symptoms include a lack of interest in your baby, frequent crying and sleep disturbances.
Depression
Depression can affect a woman at any time of her life, especially during adolescence, after pregnancy and in her later years. A reduced appetite is one symptom of depression. Irritability, a reduced sex drive, fatigue and trouble concentrating may also indicate depression. Sometimes it is hard to diagnose, particularly in the elderly, because its symptoms are similar to those of other disorders. Depression can lead to suicidal thoughts and suicide, so if you or someone you know has these symptoms, see a doctor promptly.
Eating Disorders
Females are more prone than males to develop eating disorders. Anorexia nervosa is one eating disorder that causes its victim to drastically reduce the amount of food she eats. She may explain her lack of eating as a lack of appetite and usually won't recognize that she has an eating disorder. She might also feel that she's overweight even when she's underweight. Eating disorders are mental disorders, so if you suspect someone has anorexia nervosa, encourage her to seek the help of her physician or a mental health counselor.
Physical Conditions
Many physical disorders can cause a lack of appetite. Several types of cancer, including stomach, pancreatic, ovarian and colon cancers, may cause you to feel less hungry. Conditions affecting the heart, liver or kidneys can also cause a reduced appetite. In some cases, medications that you are on might cause you to experience a drop in hunger and may lead to unintentional weight loss.
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