Pregnancy and Anorexia Nervosa: Will, Weight and Feelings

Abstract

A wide body of literature has identified obstetrical and gynecological consequences for the fetus and anorexia nervosa (AN) women during pregnancy. This mini review aims to analyze the effect of pregnancy on AN women, focusing on three specific and less well investigated domains of literature: the desire for pregnancy, weight modification and feelings experienced about pregnancy. The findings suggest that pregnancy may constitute an excellent time for case identification and treatment of AN women. Studies showed a higher prevalence of unplanned pregnancies, suggesting an underestimation of fertility during AN, together with specific trajectories of weight modification. Mixed feelings and higher depression risk were reported for AN women, especially post-partum, with a relapse risk, such as a revival of anorexic symptoms like restrictions, compensatory behaviors or other extreme weight-control modalities. Further studies are necessary on decision making about intentional pregnancy and feelings in AN women, with clearer guidelines for AN treatment during pregnancy.