What is Pregorexia?
Pregorexia is a term used to describe the behavior of women who excessively control their weight during pregnancy through means such as calorie counting, excessive exercise, and meal skipping. Although it’s not a formally recognized medical term, pregorexia raises awareness about the importance of healthy weight gain during pregnancy and highlights what that should look like.
Pregorexia has traditionally been a rare disorder but has experienced an increase in the number of cases with the rise of Hollywood’s obsession with stars and celebrities showcasing their incredibly thin bodies both during and after pregnancy. For some pregnant women today, there exists a mental expectation to maintain a slim figure at all times when it’s not realistically possible or healthy.
The Concerns with Pregorexia
Women most at risk for pregorexia are those who have struggled with previous eating disorders or body dysmorphia. This condition not only endangers the mother but also poses significant risks to the baby. Proper weight gain during pregnancy is crucial for the health of both mother and child, as it ensures the necessary nutrients are provided. When food is denied or purged, it deprives the developing baby of essential nutrients, putting additional strain on the mother’s body.
During pregnancy, women are expected to gain between 11 and 40 pounds, depending on individual circumstances, such as carrying multiple babies. If there are concerns about weight gain, it’s vital to consult a healthcare provider who can help map out a healthy weight progression and develop a balanced diet plan.
Pregorexia Symptoms and Risks
Some of the most common pregorexia symptoms and warning signs include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Binge eating
- Purging (by self-induced vomiting or laxative use)
- Restricted food intake
- Excessive calorie counting
- Eating alone
- Avoid social situations with family and friends
- Habitual and excessive exercising to the point of exhaustion
- Unwillingness to modify or change exercise routines
- Feeling shame and/or guilt about weight gain
- Expressing fear about body weight, shape, and size
- Weighing yourself several times a day
- Dizziness and/or blacking out
- Avoiding going to routine doctor’s appointments
- Feeling disconnected from the baby
- Chronic fatigue
All of the above pregorexia symptoms are potentially dangerous and can be indicative of more serious and long-term health risks, including:
- Bone loss for the mother
- Fetal development problems
- Low birth weight
- Growth restrictions
- Increased risk of prolonged labor
- Increased risk of miscarriage
- Preterm labor
- Feeding problems
- Seizures
- Possible attention deficit disorders later in life
Pregorexia Treatment
The recommended treatment for pregorexia addresses both the physical and mental challenges associated with this eating disorder. It begins with the expectant mother acknowledging her struggle with body image issues or disordered eating while pregnant and seeking help. This step is often difficult, as pregnancy can amplify insecurities and the desire to conceal these struggles.
Women experiencing pregorexia symptoms should openly communicate with their significant other, support system, and OB/GYN about their fears, anxieties, and symptoms. The OB/GYN will monitor the physical health of both the mother and baby and assist in finding a mental health professional specializing in eating disorders. Together, they will develop a realistic plan for weight gain, overall pregnancy health, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise routines.
Managing an eating disorder can be physically and emotionally taxing, making a strong support system essential. Consistency and accountability from loved ones play a crucial role in the recovery process.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for pregorexia. Treatment involves a personalized approach, requiring hard work and time, with each individual’s journey to recovery being unique.
Need to Talk to a Pregorexia Treatment Professional?
If you or someone you know is suffering from pregorexia, please contact Eating Disorder Solutions in Dallas, Texas, to schedule an appointment with a health professional. Our admissions line operates 24/7, and confidentiality is guaranteed.
