What is Pregorexia?
Pregorexia is a term used to describe disordered eating behaviors or patterns during pregnancy. While not considered a medical term, it is used to describe individuals who often fear weight change or weight gain during pregnancy. Weight gain is normal and highly encouraged during pregnancy and is also essential for the growth and development of the fetus. Having a fear of weight gain can lead to eating disorder-like behaviors that can negatively impact the development of the fetus as well as the mother.
Not all individuals who experience pregorexia have diagnosed eating disorders. Those who experience these disordered eating behaviors during pregnancy may portray similar signs and symptoms to those who experience anorexia nervosa. In addition, these individuals may similarly partake in excessive exercise and food restriction, as well as feeling anxiety and stress about their perceived body image.
Gaining weight during pregnancy, however, is normal and extremely important to the health of both the mother and the fetus. Experiencing a pregnancy-related eating disorder can cause numerous complications, such as miscarriages or preterm labor. Unfortunately, the societal influence and pressure to remain thin can further promote these unhealthy eating behaviors.
Social media can often contribute to pregorexia due to the societal stigma around weight gain during pregnancy. There is often a pressure to look a certain way, which is only exacerbated by the images of celebrities and influencers on social media. Many celebrities will post pregnancy photoshoots or daily routines/rituals, which can often portray unrealistic standards for pregnant individuals. Social media and online articles may also promote post-partum weight loss or other articles that encourage individuals to lose their pregnancy weight fast, which can significantly impact these individuals' body image and self-perception.
While pregnancy can be an exciting time, it also comes with many stressors. Having a pregnancy-related eating disorder only adds to the stress involved with pregnancy, and it is important to find support and help if experiencing this disorder. Surrounding yourself with trusted medical support, such as psychiatric assistance and dietary counseling, can help make pregnancy less stressful and contribute to a healthier experience overall.
References
Health, P. B. (2013, March 3). What is Pregorexia? Promises Behavioral Health. https://www.promises.com/addiction-blog/what-is-pregorexia/
Mahoney, B. (2017, July 5). Disordered Eating in Pregnancy: Pregorexia. Center For Discovery. https://centerfordiscovery.com/blog/disordered-eating-pregnancy-pregorexia/
Pregorexia: Risks When Anorexia and Pregnancy Collide. (2020, September 28). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/pregorexia
What is Pregorexia? (n.d.-a). Eating Disorder Hope. Retrieved January 18, 2023, from https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/information/pregorexia
What is Pregorexia? | Definition a& Overview. (n.d.-b). Retrieved January 18, 2023, from https://withinhealth.com/learn/articles/pregnancy-related-eating-disorders-pregorexia