Can a Woman with an Eating Disorder have a Healthy Pregnancy?
by Mark J Emslie
Dealing with Pregnancy and Eating Disorders
It is a regrettable fact that in the US there are 7 million women annually who suffer from one type of eating disorder or another. These horrific figures are fed by the media stereotype of how our body and appearance should be. The two most common eating disorders are bulimia and anorexia and they will worsen and have a severe impact during pregnancy.
Eating Disorders and their Effects
Many women suffering an eating disorder will experience a loss or interruption of their normal menstrual cycle and this alone will hinder the chances of pregnancy in the first place.
With the combination of pregnancy and eating disorders a multitude of problems could be experienced including:
- Premature labor
- Under weight child at birth
- Respiratory problems
- Caesarean section birth (mainly due to the premature labor)
- Depression
- Still born or foetal death
Let's face it; pregnancy in itself can be an arduous time for some with the changes in body, mood and eating patterns and with an already existent eating disorder these difficulties will be amplified. Pregnancy and eating disorders should not be a partnership and if they are, it will be a very difficult and complex time for both mother and baby.
Resolving Pregnancy and Eating Disorders
If a women is pregnant and also suffering an eating disorder, it is very possible to have a healthy baby but it is vitally important to admit and resolve the problem before it detrimentally affects the baby. There are now many programs available to specifically help with pregnancy and eating disorders which will get the disease under control before it affects your baby but as ever, early treatment is going to be more effective.
Despite the myths, it is possible for a woman with an eating disorder to have a healthy baby and experience family life. It is necessary though to follow those particular programs that help with pregnancy and eating disorders and an early appointment with your doctor to discuss treatment will always be the most productive outcome.
If you need more information or resources concerning Eating Disorders or Eating Disorder Treatment, please visit http://www.AboutEatingDisorder.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_J_Emslie
No comments:
Post a Comment