Eating disorders and pregnancy

Runrinrin

So I've struggled with an Ed since I was 15. My first pregnancy I did really well I was in recovery. Over the last 6 months Ive really struggled with body image and fighting to not go down that rd again. Last night I had my first meltdown regarding body changes. Sobbing mess. Anyone else dealing w this?

ElizabethM30

I had trouble with my first pregnancy. Hardest part is knowing that you will gain weight and scale is going up. I had to be weighed every two weeks (I was high risk) and it was very challenging. Giving up control is hard

I did have a light bulb moment sitting in my Ob's office at 20 weeks. I was crying after being weighed (I think I gained 2 lbs in 3 weeks) and another pregnant paitent gave me a cheer up face and said whatever was going on she hoped I would be okay. Just then her husband came in with their other child who was disabled. I quickly realized that I should be happy my baby was healthy and that I needed some counselling. My Ob helped me a lot and had some great resources. Don't be afraid to ask for help.

1faceinacrowd

I had an ED and was in recovery during my first pregnancy. It is hard, I know. Read "Life Without Ed". That book changed my life. Also, doing prenatal yoga and eating healthy helped a lot. Best of luck mama.

Bethyboo26

Sorry that that you are going through this! I've never struggled with an ED but I know the challenges of pregnancy are hard! Keep your head up!

DDRRT1982

Recovery from an ED is very hard and is going to take a lot of effort and strength on your part. Your baby depends on you to maintain as healthy of a lifestyle as possible. Please seek the help of your OB to find the resources necessary to keep you healthy physically and mentally. Pregnancy is such a short time period in a person's life. It can be completely empowering when you finally realize the amazing thing it is doing by growing a human. Find the help necessary so that you can enjoy it. Good luck!

kelseyrayay

Sorry you are going through this. Your profile pic is gorgeous! Having a baby is a beautiful thing. I have struggled a little with my imagine since I just had my son a 4 months ago and now I'm pregnant again. I haven't lost all of the weight. But I just keep reminding myself that my husband thinks I'm beautiful and that's all that matters!

Abfisher

@Runrinrin I also have a history of ED. I restricted and compulsively exercised in my early 20s on and off for about 4 years. I was a runner before the pregnancy, but I don't trust myself to keep it moderate intensity, so I have cut back to just brisk walking. I never sought any ED treatment, but some life changes helped me recover. I haven't had any relapses for at least three years now. I found that I CANNOT own a scale, or I will repeatedly weigh myself. I recommend ditching the scale if you have one. I also stop myself from standing in front of the mirror and analyzing. Sometimes, I avoid looking in it at all. I have already gained a couple of pounds (I can tell by looking at myself). It bothers me, but I remind myself that it is for the baby. My appetite is insatiable, so it has made it hard to not gain any weight. When I want to ignore a hunger pain, because I feel fat, I remind myself that I would be starving my baby. This is something that I have really wanted and I would not want to do anything to jeopardize the health of this baby or myself. I just have to remind myself now and again, but I have been doing fine. I just remind myself that I will focus on the weight after I deliver and recover. 

Runrinrin

Thanks everyone. I keep reminding my self baby is more important right now and just try to follow a healthy meal plan and not to go overboard with exercising. I plan on discussing everything with my ob at my first appointment.