Examining the Relationship Between Eating Disorders and Gestational Weight Gain: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Psychiatry
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Background:

• Pregnancy involves significant physical and psychological changes, increasing risks for eating disorders.
• Gestational weight gain (GWG) is critical for maternal and infant health, yet its relationship with eating disorders is understudied.
• Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder pose unique challenges during pregnancy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder) and gestational weight gain (GWG).
• To identify key themes influencing GWG in pregnant women with diagnosed eating disorders.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of CINAHL, Embase, PsycInfo, and PubMed since 1994.
• Inclusion criteria: singleton pregnancy, diagnosed eating disorder (anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder), age ≥18.
• Qualitative synthesis of 14 eligible studies identified from 1471 articles.

Main Results:

• Three primary themes emerged: body image concerns, fear of GWG and postpartum weight retention, and prioritizing the baby's health.
• These themes illuminate the complex interplay between eating disorders and GWG.
• Findings highlight deviations from recommended GWG guidelines.

Conclusions:

• Eating disorders significantly influence GWG patterns in pregnant women.
• Understanding these themes is crucial for healthcare providers offering prenatal care to patients with eating disorders.
• Clinical guidance should address body image, weight concerns, and fetal well-being in this population.