Pregorexia or mamirexia occurs in those pregnant women whose obsession is to be extremely thin. But there are others eating disorders of the mother that affect the baby and that every time they have greater incidence.
A large study conducted with bulimic, anorexic women, affected by both pathologies and with healthy pregnant women, notes that women with bulimia were more likely to have abortion antecedents and those who suffered from anorexia, children with low weight.
However, in cases of anorexia more serious if there is a risk of abortion and premature delivery, along with babies with low birth weight. The study is published in the 'British Journal of Psychiatric'.
These problems occur because for the proper development of the embryo and the fetus, a sufficient supply of nutrients in the mother's diet is essential, including iodine, calcium, iron and certain vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid ... Therefore, even without reaching these pathologies, simply dieting during pregnancy can pose a risk to the baby.
Problems after birth
To the problems that affect the fetus, we must add those that occur after birth, such as increased risk of postpartum depression. For example, it is known that women with bulimia multiply by four the risk of suffering from postpartum depression.
Some women overfeed their babies for fear of suffering problems such as those they went through, and others may see their problems reflected in their children, and feel shame because they see them "fat."
Most people who suffer from this type of eating disorders deny it, so it is necessary not only the dietary treatment necessary to prevent the health of the mother and the baby and recover good habits, but also a psychological work, psychotherapies that Help them overcome them.
For all these difficulties and risks of eating disorders during pregnancy Support to those affected is essential not only during pregnancy but also during postpartum and parenting. It is recommended to carry out a preventive follow-up during the rearing, during the first months of life, together with the pediatrician.
