Eating Behaviors during Pregnancy: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Jawaher Al Hamimi1, Asma Al Shidhani2, Maya Al Mamari1
1Department of Family Medicine, Directorate General of Khoula Hospital, Ministry of Health, Muscat 113, Oman.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 29, 2024
Summary
This study found a high prevalence of eating disorders among pregnant women in Oman, with binge eating being common. Sociodemographic factors like education and employment influence specific eating disorder behaviors, highlighting the need for targeted support.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Background:
- Eating disorders pose significant risks during pregnancy, including miscarriage and low birth weight.
- This study investigated eating habits and associated factors among pregnant women in Muscat, Oman.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify sociodemographic factors linked to eating disorders in pregnant women in Oman.
- To assess the prevalence of eating disorders and specific disordered eating behaviors during pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- The Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire was used for assessment.
- Chi-Square and Fisher's Exact tests analyzed relationships between behaviors and variables.
Main Results:
- 1.6% of participants potentially had an eating disorder; binge eating was most prevalent (18.8%).
- Low pre-gestational Body Mass Index (BMI) correlated with binge eating; working women showed higher rates of self-induced vomiting.
- High pre-pregnancy BMI was linked to restraint behavior, shape/weight concerns, and excessive exercise.
Conclusions:
- Eating disorders are prevalent in pregnant Omani women.
- Less educated women reported higher laxative use; working women exhibited more binge eating and self-induced vomiting.
- Targeted interventions are crucial for vulnerable pregnant populations.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:23Binge Eating Disorders
57
Binge eating disorder is a significant mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of excessive food consumption within a short period, accompanied by a perceived loss of control over eating behavior. Unlike occasional overeating, binge eating disorder is marked by distressing emotions such as guilt, shame, and anxiety following binge episodes. The disorder affects individuals across different ages and backgrounds, with profound implications for physical and psychological...
57
01:30Bulimia Nervosa
59
Bulimia nervosa is a complex and severe eating disorder characterized by a cyclical pattern of binge-and-purge eating pattern. It generally involves an episode of binge eating, followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, excessive exercise, laxative use, or fasting, to prevent weight gain. Despite often maintaining a normal weight, individuals with bulimia are intensely preoccupied with their body image and harbor an overwhelming fear of gaining weight. This can contribute to the...
59