Expert: Leigh-Anne Persing, PA-C - 10/19/2008

Question
Hi right now i am in "recovery" from anorexia i put it in " marks cause i probably still dont have the best eating habbits. This month i have been wondeing if i am pregnant as hpt say - but im still un certain. I would love to be a mom again ( i have a 4 year old) but it also scares me to death as i am already wondering about gaining weight how will i eat cause i still dont know how to eat "normal" i have been testing everyday cause i want to make sure that if i am i start eating properly ( i dont eat for 2 days and than i binge on the 3rd day) and if im not i would like to become pregnant very soon do you have any advice for me? I am so scared to gain weight and find out that im not be pregnant.

Thanks

Answer
My advice is... get as close to recovered as possible before trying to conceive. Although many women, when they find out they are pregnant, are able to overcome their weight fears because they know they are carrying another human being. There is still a small subset of women who relapse, or their eating disorders worsen, during the pregnancy. And whether you are recovered or not you are going to be at an increased risk of post-partum depression. Actively participating in eating disorder behaviors when you are pregnant not only puts you at risk, but can have severe effects on your unborn child. Nutrient deficiencies can result in a small baby and even preterm labor, which puts the baby at increased risk for problems later in life. I suggest that you start trying to eat normal meals on a daily basis... don't wait until you are pregnant to start. You want yourself to be healthy for the baby. Also, I would suggest starting on a prenatal vitamin (even if you are pregnant) since it has more essential vitamins/minerals.