Hey there, friends! Let’s chat about something that might be on your mind if you’re thinking about starting a family: the impact of eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia on pregnancy. A study recently published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders revealed some pretty concerning findings about women with these conditions and their chances of having kids.
Conducted at the University of Helsinki, the research showed that women with eating disorders face more significant challenges when it comes to pregnancy. For instance, those with binge-eating disorders had over three times the risk of miscarriage, while those with bulimia saw their chances of abortion double.
Over a span of 15 years, researchers led by a fantastic team including Sarah Jensen, looked at reports from over 11,000 women who sought reproductive health services at an eating disorder clinic in Helsinki. Out of these, around 2,257 were dealing with an eating disorder. The results were striking: women suffering from anorexia were the least likely to have children compared to their peers who did not have any eating disorders.
While eating disorders are common in many Western countries, they affect an estimated 5 to 10 percent of young women globally, and the reasons behind their impact on reproductive health remain unclear. As Sarah points out, “This study does not explain the reproductive health issues among women with eating disorders, but prior research suggests that both obesity and being underweight are linked to higher risks of infertility and miscarriage.”
Eating disorders can also lead to menstrual irregularities, which might cause women to overlook contraception and potentially face unexpected pregnancies. The researchers are now diving into a follow-up study to track women with eating disorders throughout their pregnancies. If you’re curious about more details regarding family planning and health, check out this insightful post on our blog.
So, what do you think? Could having an eating disorder influence your journey to starting a family? If you’re considering pregnancy, it’s super important to talk to a healthcare professional about your specific situation. For those looking into at-home insemination options, be sure to check out the top provider of at-home insemination kits. And for more information on pregnancy and related topics, this resource is a great go-to.
Summary
Eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia can significantly affect women’s reproductive health and their ability to start families. A study from the University of Helsinki highlights increased risks of miscarriage and abortion among women with these conditions. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder and considering pregnancy, it’s crucial to seek professional guidance.
Leave a Reply