Pregnancy

To grow a healthy baby you will have to gain weight, 10-13 kilos (22-28 lbs). This may be emotionally exhausting, particularly as you may experience the ‘normal’ side effects of pregnancy such as vomiting, bloating, fatigue and breast enlargement. The weight gained by the baby during the third trimester (the last three months of pregnancy) can make this a particularly difficult time. Being weighed is an important part of monitoring the progress of your pregnancy, you may find it is helpful if you don’t look at the scales and ask the person weighing you not to read out the weight. Don’t be afraid of discussing your concerns about weight and body image as otherwise the medical team may not clearly understand your worries.

Having antenatal carers who understand the problems you may experience is important, so do be honest about the issues you may have around food. If you have not discussed your eating problems with your GP you should do so now as otherwise they may not be able to detect potential problems or give you appropriate advice. Your midwife, the health visitor and the obstetrician will be better able to support you and your baby properly if they know about your eating disorder. It is possible that you will be referred to an eating disorders specialist who will be able to work with the other medical staff supporting you and provide them with specialist medical information and advice. As your diet will be very important, you should also be prepared to ask for nutritional advice from a dietician or nutritionist if it is not offered to you.

Other organisations which may be useful

• National Childbirth Trust (for help with pre and postnatal and Breastfeeding advice)Alexandra House, Oldham Terrace, London, W3 6NH Tel. 0208 992 8637
• LaLeche League (for help with Breastfeeding) Tel. 0207 242 1278
• The Children’s Society
  Edward Rudolph House, Margery St, London, WC1
  Tel: 0207 841 4436