Eating Disorders and Body Image Issues Postpartum: What You Need to Know
The postpartum period is often described as a time of joy and bonding with your new baby. But for many new parents, it’s also a time of immense physical and emotional change - one that can stir up deep-seated body image concerns or even trigger disordered eating.
Why the Postpartum Period Can Be Challenging for Body Image
Your body undergoes significant changes during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. These changes, combined with sleep deprivation, hormonal shifts, and societal pressure to "bounce back," can make it difficult to feel at home in your body.
Some common challenges new parents face with body image postpartum include:
Unrealistic expectations: Social media and celebrity culture often promote an idealised image of rapid postpartum weight loss, which is not the reality for most people.
Lack of control: The transition into parenthood can feel overwhelming, and for some, controlling food or exercise becomes a way to cope.
Comments from others: Well-meaning but intrusive remarks about your body or weight can be triggering, especially if you have a history of an eating disorder or body dissatisfaction.
Medicalised focus on weight: Postpartum check-ups often emphasise weight rather than overall well-being, reinforcing the idea that weight loss is an indicator of health.
How Eating Disorders Can Manifest Postpartum
For those with a history of an eating disorder, the postpartum period can be a vulnerable time. Even for those who have never struggled with disordered eating before, the pressure to regain a "pre-baby body" can lead to restrictive eating, compulsive exercise, or other harmful behaviors.
Some signs that disordered eating might be developing postpartum include:
Obsessing over weight or food choices
Skipping meals or restricting intake despite increased energy needs
Feeling guilt or shame after eating
Compulsive exercise, even when exhausted or unwell
Avoiding social situations due to body image concerns
Navigating Recovery and Body Acceptance Postpartum
If you’re struggling with body image or disordered eating postpartum, you are not alone. Here are some ways to support yourself during this time:
Challenge unrealistic expectations – Your body has just done something incredible. Recovery is a process, not a race.
Seek support – Talking to a therapist specialising in eating disorders can help you navigate this transition with compassion.
Tune into your needs – Your body requires nourishment, movement, and rest. Try to listen to what it needs rather than external pressures.
Curate your social media feed – Unfollow accounts that promote unrealistic body standards and instead engage with content that supports body acceptance.
Advocate for yourself in medical settings – If weight-focused conversations feel unhelpful, let your healthcare provider know what kind of support you need.
You Deserve Support
If you’re finding the postpartum period challenging when it comes to body image or eating, know that you are not failing - our culture’s expectations are. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and compassionate, specialist support is available.