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Clinical implications for pregnant women in recovery from a severe eating disorder
by Chuffo, Stacey M., PsyD, ALLIANT INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY, SAN DIEGO, 2007, 0 pages; 3273266
 

Abstract: This qualitative study examined clinical implications for pregnant women in recovery from an eating disorder. Ten women were administered the Eating Attitudes Test-26, three cards from the Thematic Apperception Test, three cards from the Pregnancy Thematic Apperception Test, and a clinical interview. The combined use of these measures allowed for exploration of both the conscious and unconscious conflicts that occur with this population. Using the constant comparative method of thematic analysis, several themes were identified. The first major finding was that much like other women who have 'recovered' from an eating disorder, pregnant women with a history of an eating disorder continued to experience the psychological symptoms of the disorder during their pregnancies, despite their 'recovery' status. Several of the participants reported body dissatisfaction during pregnancy and others reported fearing that they would relapse during pregnancy. Despite the presence of these symptoms, many of the participants chose to conceal their eating disorder histories from their obstetrician. Many of the participants were ambivalent about becoming mothers. Some reported a decrease in sexual activity or interest during pregnancy and others reported that conception was stressful. Some women reported a significant increase in anxiety during pregnancy and others expressed concerns about being capable of parenting. Despite their continued struggles with the psychological symptoms of their eating disorders, most women attempted to embrace their maternal identities and some women immediately began taking on maternal roles and responsibilities. A few of the participants reported feeling more 'like a woman' since pregnant. Many of the women reported that their own health became more important once they learned of their pregnancies. One unexpected finding of this study was that 50% of the participants reported that they enjoyed the bodily changes that had occurred since pregnancy. Therefore, it seems that the impact of pregnancy is not necessarily or consistently a negative experience for women with eating disorder histories. Several of the women experienced conflict about autonomy and conflict in relationships since pregnant. Despite these conflicts, the participants continued to rely on their mothers for support. It is recommended that clinicians address these issues in treatment and educate patients about the various components of eating disorders to ensure that treatment continues until both physical and psychological recovery is actually achieved. Additional research should focus on exploring the definition of recovery, examining the transition to motherhood with this population, exploring father-daughter relationships, and defining treatment protocols for obstetricians.

 
Advisor: NULL
School: ALLIANT INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY, SAN DIEGO
Source: DAI-B 68/07, p. 4815, Jan 2008
Source Type: PsyD
Subjects: Psychotherapy
Publication Number: 3273266
     
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