By Angie Best-Boss, Contributing Writer
Pregnancy eating disorders can be a serious health risk. The average pregnant woman should gain between 25 and 35 pounds. A woman who is under weight as she begins her pregnancy will need to gain more (a BMI under 20 should gain between 28-40 pounds), while a woman who is severely overweight may need to gain a little less.
The following complications for moms are associated with pregnancy eating disorders:
- Premature labor
- Likelihood of cesarean birth
- Delayed fetal growth
- Gestational diabetes
- Complications during labor
- Depression
- Miscarriage
- Preeclampsia
- Risks for Babies
Mothers with eating disorders are more likely to give birth to babies with respiratory illnesses and low Apgar scores. Babies of malnourished moms also have a 35% increase in the risk of coronary death and are 6 times more likely to develop diabetes later in life.
Mothers who do not eat right and gain insufficient amounts of weight can suffer from spontaneous abortions or stillbirth. Excessive exercise can also increase your chance for miscarriage and stillbirth.
- Respiratory complications
- Liver problems
- Poor development
- Needy personality
- Cerebral palsy
- Premature birth
- Poor social skills
- Risk of diabetes
- Deformities
- Lower weight in birth
- Heart damage
- Delayed body growth
- Mental disorders
- Jaundice
- Poor learning ability
More Information
Looking for Treatment? Call 1-877-211-5188 Anytime
If you or a loved one is suffering from an eating disorder, please call Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center at 1-877-211-5188 anytime to discuss treatment options.
The Eating Disorder Support Group at SupportGroups.com is for individuals who want to connect during life's challenging times. Share experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
Support Groups
Find a Treatment Facility Near You
Click on a state below to find eating disorder treatment options that could be right for you.
The Eating Disorder Support Groups at SupportGroups.com is for individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
