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Bulimia and the Nursing Mother
Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC Special Projects Coordinator at Eating Disorder Hope
Bulimia Nervosa is a deadly psychiatric illness that can develop in a person, irrespective of race, gender, cultural background, size or shape. For individuals who are genetically predisposed to developing bulimia, certain experiences in life may trigger the progression of this eating disorder. For the person in recovery from bulimia, there are circumstances that can increase vulnerability to relapse.
For some women, becoming a mother can be one of the most rewarding and challenging experiences. The decision to breastfeed is an important choice that impacts both mother and baby. Breastfeeding can be a way to provide adequate nourishment to a growing baby and to create moments for bonding between mother and baby.
The Demands of a New Baby
The demands of a new baby and breastfeeding can be overwhelming and stressful. For the mother struggling with bulimia, this transition to motherhood can be triggering. Women who have struggled with bulimia may be more susceptible to developing postpartum depression after delivery, which can also make long-term recovery challenging after having a baby.
You Are Not Alone
The important thing to understand is that you are not alone in this journey. If you are a new mother who finds yourself struggling with bulimia while caring for a baby, it is crucial that you seek out professional support to find help and healing.
If you are nursing a baby and feeling overwhelmed about this responsibility, there are resources that can assist you through this process as well. International board certified lactation consultants (IBCLC) are trained professionals who can support your breastfeeding endeavors and help you overcome any challenges you might be facing.
Don’t Let Bulimia Stop Your Dreams
Raising a child comes with great joy and responsibility. Bulimia nervosa can be a tremendous obstacle in your parenthood aspirations, but it does not need to keep you from being the mother you want and hope to be.
If you are in recovery from bulimia and unsure about breastfeeding your baby, be sure to work with your treatment team. However you decide to feed and nourish your baby does not reflect on the capacity you have to love and care for your child. In order to provide the best possible care for your baby, it is essential that you also keep your health and recovery a priority.
Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!
Are you a nursing mother who is in recovery from bulimia nervosa? What aspects of being a mother have supported your recovery? What aspects of motherhood have made recovery more challenging?
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on June 11th, 2015
Published on EatingDisorderHope.com
The EatingDisorderHope.com editorial team comprises experienced writers, editors, and medical reviewers specializing in eating disorders, treatment, and mental and behavioral health.
