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Expert Q&A
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| By Eve Eliot Eating Disorder Expert | ||
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My wife is pregnant. She has suffered from eating problems in the past. What signs should I look for that her bulimia may be a problem again?
I can understand your concern. However, that your wife has been OK for a few years is a very good indicator that all will probably be well.
Pregnancy IS a challenge for people with fears about radical changes in body size and shape. But your wife was courageous enough to become pregnant in the first place, and this gives me the sense that her dominant emotional theme is positive on even the topic of weight gain.
I have seen many clients (former sufferers of eating disorders and even current sufferers) through pregnancies which resulted in the emergence of perfectly healthy babies and very happy mothers, mothers amazed that they were able to get through several months of being larger-sized than they had been comfortable with. Don't forget that your wife has enormous hormonal support here – her pregnancy will shift her focus from her own size to her baby's well-being.
I would encourage you to invest in this point of view – that everything will be well – and look for reasons to feel GOOD about her pregnancy, rather than to look carefully and vigilantly for signs of derailing on her part.
Your positive outlook will in fact provide her with the consistent emotional support she needs. We know from her mention of the necessary weight gain to come that she has apprehensions. Do not join her in these apprehensions. Instead, cultivate a positive, confident attitude and envision her dealing bravely with the weight gain.
If you notice strong signs of a problem, write again! Meanwhile, good luck and congratulations!"
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