Eating Disorders and Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time of incredible transformation, but for those with a history of eating disorders—or those currently struggling—it can also feel like walking a tightrope. What’s wild is that the majority of birthing humans I work with tell me they have a history of an eating disorder. The changes in your body, the focus on weight gain, and the pressure to "eat for two" can all stir up complex emotions. I’ll be the first to tell you, “eating for two” is not a thing.
I felt that my years of therapy, OA, bingeing and restricting were behind me around the time I found out I was pregnant with my first. It was as if some switch was flipped… and all of a sudden this thing my brain had obsessed over for years was just not something I thought a whole lot about. It was miraculous- but that is not the case for a lot of people. And pregnancy has a way of bringing up the things that we really wish it didn’t.
If this resonates with you, know this: you are not alone, and there’s a way to approach this season with compassion, support, and care.
Nourishment, Not Perfection
Let’s start with the basics. Pregnancy isn’t about eating perfectly every day or hitting a certain number on the scale. It’s about finding ways to nourish your body and your baby while respecting your own needs, and listening deeply to your body’s needs.
Here are some gentle tips:
Small, steady steps. Eating consistently, even if it’s small portions, helps regulate your energy and mood. Foods like nut butter on toast, a handful of berries, or a smoothie can go a long way.
Forgive the food rules. Pregnancy can challenge ideas about “good” and “bad” foods. Focus on variety and balance and organ meats(!) instead of rigid rules.
Hydrate with care. Water, herbal teas, and electrolyte drinks can be a lifesaver, especially if nausea is in the mix.
Shifting the Focus From Weight to Wellness
The constant monitoring of weight gain in pregnancy can feel overwhelming and even triggering. You have the right to advocate for a more balanced approach:
Speak up. Share your concerns with your care provider. They are clueless how triggering they can be in some cases. Many are happy to focus on other indicators of health, like baby’s growth or your energy levels.
Skip the scale. It’s okay to ask not to see the number at weigh-ins if it feels unhelpful. Your provider can track it without making it a point of discussion.
Celebrate what feels good. Reframe the focus on what your body can do—like growing a tiny human—and how you can support it with small acts of care.
The Power of Support
Pregnancy doesn’t mean you have to face everything on your own. In fact, leaning on a community or professional support system can make all the difference:
Work with a team. A therapist, dietitian, or counselor specializing in eating disorders and pregnancy can provide invaluable guidance.
Find your people. Whether it’s a support group (Hi! Beyond Birth is an amazing support system!), a trusted friend, or a professional who understands, having someone who gets it can be a lifeline.
Join a community. Healing often happens faster when you’re surrounded by people who uplift and understand you.
Let’s Work Together
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about how to navigate pregnancy with the history of an eating disorder, working with my team could be the right next step. Important: I am not a therapist, I am not qualified to treat anyone’s eating disorder… If you have an active case please seek treatment. There is no time to waste- your baby’s brain is on the line!
My program is all about meeting you where you are, providing resources tailored to your unique needs, and creating a sense of connection and empowerment. It includes all the birth education you will ever need- plus weekly Zoom meetings with other folks who are just as curious and passionate about preparing their bodies as you are.
Whether you’re looking for individualized support or the camaraderie of others on a similar journey, I’d love to help. Let’s talk about how we can create a plan that works for you and your baby.
Click below to book a call and see if joining Beyond Birth is the right fit:
You don’t have to do this alone. Together, we can make this season one of care, growth, and hope—for you and your baby.
Love, Emily
