In Schwangerschaft und postpartaler Phase kommt es zu tiefgreifenden
körperlichen, hormonellen und psychosozialen Veränderungen, die das Risiko für
die Entstehung, Verschärfung oder Wiederkehr von Essstörungen erhöhen können.
Dieser Beitrag behandelt wichtige Aspekte veränderten Essverhaltens mit Bezug
zur Schwangerschaft und stellt dar, wie eine zeitnahe, adäquate Unterstützung
und Behandlung der Betroffenen ermöglicht werden können.
Abstract
Eating disorders occur in approximately 4.3% of pregnant women, with previously
affected women representing a particularly high-risk group. Pregnancy and the
postpartum period are characterized by profound physical, hormonal, and
psychosocial changes that can increase the risk of developing, worsening, or
recurring eating disorders. Body image, coping with weight gain, and the
pressure to regain one's previous body shape are particularly important
risk factors in all phases, from the time of conception to the postpartum
period. Eating disorders can lead to menstrual irregularities and infertility in
women, with hormonal imbalances and disordered eating behavior often being
causes that also increase the risk of pregnancy complications. Women with eating
disorders have a higher risk of pregnancy complications such as premature
births, miscarriages, anemia, and hyperemesis gravidarum, although these risks
vary depending on the type of eating disorder. The stigma and shame associated
with eating disorders represent significant barriers to open communication and
the use of therapeutic help. Therefore, therapists should choose a sensitive and
appreciative approach, avoid stigmatization, and courageously but empathetically
address possible eating disorders directly to enable early support.
Schlüsselwörter
Essstörung - Schwangerschaft - präpartale Gesundheit - Kinderwunsch - Psychotherapie
Keywords
Eating disorders - pregnancy - prenatal health - desire to have children - psychotherapy
