Eating disorders in pregnancy: practical considerations for the midwife.

Women who have eating disorders represent up to 8% of pregnant women today. The risks to both a mother and her baby are significant if an eating disorder is present. It is important that midwives have the knowledge, skills and confidence to enquire about eating disorders with women early in the pregnancy, and are also aware of the clinical signs of eating disorders, in order to recognise these situations. Midwives should use sensitive and compassionate communication skills when caring for women who have eating disorders, who have complex psychological feelings that may affect their behaviour. The symptoms of eating disorders may improve during pregnancy but midwives should be aware of the effects of childbirth. The postnatal phase is an important period for a mother who has an eating disorder, as her symptoms may recur, and midwives should therefore work in partnership with key members of the multidisciplinary team. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]