Flat bellies and slim bodies are the dream promoted by many young women on social media. This stereotype and the relentless pursuit of the standard is the main reason why many women develop serious eating disorders, such as anorexia, bulimia, and now, pregorexia, in which pregnant women are excessively afraid of gaining weight. The disorder called pregorexia is a term in English that combines pregnant and anorexia. The word is popular in origin and is not used in the medical community. The disease has been little studied by science, as it is rare for patients to develop the disorder. Pregorexia can mainly affect patients who already have some type of eating disorder. Genetic factors, family issues, and psychological conditions are also evaluated during diagnosis. The complication severely affects the baby’s health and increases the risks of miscarriage, premature birth, and babies with low birth weight.

Flat Stomachs During Pregnancy and Possible Risks

Due to the fitness trend on social media, famous bloggers and influencers show off their toned bodies and demonstrate that it is possible to get pregnant and still not lose abdominal muscles. Although this type of behavior receives significant public disapproval, unfortunately, it can be seen as an example and something positive, especially among teenagers and younger women. Those with the disorder tend to follow restrictive diets and engage in strenuous physical exercise, even after getting pregnant. However, during pregnancy any type of excess or restriction can be highly harmful to the baby. Physical activity done in moderation and with professional supervision is beneficial for the pregnant woman’s health, helps with labor, and offers various benefits. Nevertheless, excessive exercise during pregnancy can overload the lower back and the joints. It is important to point out that during pregnancy, a woman’s joints are more fragile, and intense exercise can cause injuries.

First Signs of Pregorexia

  • Obsession with physical appearance;
  • Avoiding any kind of fat, out of fear of gaining weight;
  • Refusing to accept that gaining weight during pregnancy is normal and trying to avoid it at all costs;
  • Believing she is fat, even when her body suggests otherwise.
  • Usually eating alone (afraid someone will comment) or skipping meals;
  • There are cases of laxative use and self-induced vomiting.

How to Help?

Family and friends can also spot the signs of this disorder in the pregnant woman and help her seek support from a specialized therapist, psychiatrist, or nutritionist. Treatment in cases of pregorexia helps the pregnant woman accept her body, understand the changes and why they are necessary, in addition to helping her face the change as something that is part of a new phase.

IMPORTANT: To prevent excessive weight gain during pregnancy, specialists recommend a healthy, balanced diet every three hours.

Ideally, during this period, you should eat small portions and avoid consuming fats and sugars, but never follow a restrictive diet. Many mothers mistakenly think they need to gain only the baby’s weight, overlooking that pregnancy causes other changes that also increase the figure on the scale, such as: increased blood flow, placenta, amniotic fluid, breast growth, and a greater accumulation of fat, which is common during this stage.

What Is the Ideal Weight During Pregnancy?

Generally, the recommendation is made according to the woman’s Body Mass Index (BMI) before pregnancy. Women who are at an appropriate weight can gain from 11 to 16 kg. Pregnant women who were already overweight or obese before pregnancy will also naturally gain weight, and may gain between 5 and 9 kg.

I’m Afraid of Gaining Weight During Pregnancy. What Now?

Having a healthy pregnancy and returning to your previous body shape can be very smooth. The fear of gaining weight during pregnancy should not interfere with the health of the mother and the baby. Therefore, it is essential to have regular checkups with the obstetrician and nutritionist, as they will guide you on the best path toward a healthy pregnancy with an appropriate weight. See Also: How Not to Gain Weight During Pregnancy? Photo: digitalmarketingagency