Navigating Eating Disorder Recovery During Pregnancy
The anticipation and preparation for the arrival of a new baby is usually a joyous occasion. However, pregnancy can be challenging, especially for those in eating disorder recovery. The physical changes associated with pregnancy, new food aversions and cravings, motion sickness, and so much more can all affect a pregnant person’s eating disorder recovery.
By: Regina Colie
Disclaimer: Before proceeding with this post, please be aware that the following content discusses eating disorder recovery during pregnancy. We understand that each person's pregnancy, fertility, and parenthood journey is personal and can often be complicated. This post is meant to share information that might be helpful to some of our readers. Above all, your well-being is important to us, and if at any point you feel uncomfortable, please feel free to step away. Remember, it's okay to take things at your own pace and to do what feels best for you. And if you ever need support, don't hesitate to reach out to the BALANCE team.
Eating Disorders During Pregnancy
Research has shown that eating disorders can negatively impact people during their pregnancies. 22% of people who received an eating disorder diagnosis experience a relapse during their pregnancy. Several medical complications associated with an eating disorder can affect both the parent and the baby. These complications can include higher rates of miscarriage, premature births, low birth weight, higher risk of developing postpartum depression, and difficulties with nursing. People in eating disorder recovery may also feel shameful or guilty while pregnant due to a fear of possibly harming their baby.
Why Can Pregnancy Contribute To Eating Disorders?
During pregnancy, several factors could contribute to disordered eating. Pregnancy presents a higher risk of developing binge eating disorder. Body changes during pregnancy, and postpartum can impact how a person views their body and retrigger symptoms. Recurring eating disorder symptoms can also exacerbate postpartum depression. Despite these risks, there are a few ways to seek support to remain firmly in recovery during pregnancy and postpartum.
Develop Coping Strategies During Pregnancy
Weight gain is a common and natural change during pregnancy to keep the parent and the baby healthy. Discussing your feelings about the weight changes associated with pregnancy with a loved one or your treatment team can help normalize and destigmatize these challenges. Rapid hormone changes can also cause fluctuating emotions during pregnancy. These changes are normal, so discussing your feelings with your treatment team and establishing soothing self-care practices to help you feel relaxed during this unpredictable time can be helpful.
Build Body Image Resilience
While navigating eating disorder recovery during pregnancy, it is crucial to maintain a positive relationship with your body as you anticipate the arrival of your child. Some tips for building this relationship include educating yourself about the changes your body is experiencing, avoiding comparing yourself to others on social media, and finding people who embrace body acceptance as they navigate the highs and lows of pregnancy.
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This post was written by BALANCE Blog Contributor, Regina Colie (she/her).
Regina Colie is currently pursuing her Masters in General Psychology at The New School For Social Research. She is interested in working with women who have eating disorders and postpartum depression. Upon her graduation from Marymount Manhattan College, she had the opportunity to be published in Dr. Nava Silton’s book, The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Child, Adolescent, and Adult Development. Her previous work has been featured in Project HEAL, BALANCE, Olive Branch Nutrition, and Nourishing NY.
References
Ekern, B. (2022). Pregnancy and Maintaining Eating Disorder Recovery. Eating Disorder Hope. https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/blog/pregnancy-and-maintaining-eating-disorder-recovery
Ceds, L. M. P. (2021). How to Cope With Eating Disorders During Pregnancy. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/pregnancy-and-eating-disorders-4179037
Todd. (2019). What to Expect When You’re Expecting in Recovery. The Emily Program. https://emilyprogram.com/blog/what-to-expect-when-youre-expecting-in-recovery/