Pregnancy and menopause increase eating disorder risks in women

Pregnancy and menopause are important times for women, but they also carry a risk of eating disorders and body image issues. A recent report from The Butterfly Foundation highlights this concern. Courtney Rattle, a 34-year-old yoga instructor from the Blue Mountains, faced anorexia for much of her life. After 12 years without her period, she believed she could not have children. However, she was pleasantly surprised when she became pregnant. Although her pregnancy experience was empowering, she struggled with body image after giving birth. Many assume eating disorders primarily affect teenage girls, but the report shows that pregnancy and menopause are high-risk periods for women. Studies reveal about 7.5% of pregnant women may experience eating disorders. Postpartum, nearly 70% of women express dissatisfaction with their bodies. Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can lead to body image issues. Sarah Cox from The Butterfly Foundation explains that these life stages often involve stress and shifts in identity. Women may feel pressure to meet societal beauty standards, which can lead to unhealthy behaviors. For instance, Sue Cody, who battled bulimia and anorexia, found her eating disorder resurfaced during perimenopause. She struggled with body image after significant life changes, like an empty nest and the impact of COVID-19. Cody's story reflects the issues many women face, particularly related to mental health and body dissatisfaction. Experts emphasize the need for better support for women experiencing eating disorders at all life stages. They highlight the importance of education for healthcare professionals to understand eating disorders better, as many women may not fit the typical stereotypes. More age-appropriate recovery programs are necessary, as most existing services cater to younger individuals. The development of resources for those experiencing eating disorders during menopause is a step towards addressing this gap. Both Rattle and Cody's experiences underline the need for awareness and support for women's mental health throughout life transitions.