Eating disorders are a group of psychiatric syndromes
characterized by serious disturbances in eating behavior and dietary patterns,
which can lead to significant medical and nutritional complications. These
disorders typically involve abnormal perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors
related to body weight and nutrition. Eating disorders are typically observed
in adolescents and young adult women. Pregnancy is a process that involves
significant psychological and biological changes that can alter the perception
of body shape and lead to changes in eating habits; therefore, it can be a
turning point where eating behavior disorders may be triggered or exacerbated.
The prevalence of eating disorders in pregnant women has been found to range
between 0.5% and 10.6%. Eating disorders may follow different courses during
pregnancy and the postpartum period. Maternal eating behavior disorders can
have long-term effects on the psychological and physiological health of both
the mother and fetus, as well as on growth and development, highlighting the
importance of addressing this issue. Women with eating disorders who do not
wish to become pregnant should be provided with information about birth control
methods. Women with eating disorders who are considering pregnancy should be
informed in advance about the risks to their own and their child’s health, as
well as the expected weight gain and body changes during pregnancy. Patients
should postpone pregnancy until the disease and medical complications
stabilize. The management of these patients during pregnancy and the postpartum
period requires special attention and a multidisciplinary approach. Their care
should be provided by a healthcare team that includes at least obstetricians,
psychiatrists, psychologists, dietitians, and if necessary, other specialists.
After childbirth, a pediatrician should also be included in the team.
Monitoring of eating disorder symptoms, tracking the development of the fetus
and mother, providing nutritional support when necessary, offering psychotherapy,
and potentially pharmacotherapy should be part of the treatment plan, aiming to
support the health of both the mother and baby to the best extent possible.
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