PubMed · 1988 · 18 citations · 0 references
MedicineMaternal HealthPsychiatryEating DisordersMaternal-fetal MedicineObstetric ComplicationsAnorexia NervosaBinge-eating DisorderBulimia NervosaEating Disorder EtiologyMaternal Mental Health In PregnancyPregnancyBinge Eating Disorder TreatmentBinge Eating EpisodesEating Disorders In PregnancyMultidisciplinary ResponseTherapeutic Treatment ManagementVomiting In PregnancyWell-beingYoung Women
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by secretive binge eating and purging with induced vomiting, laxatives, and diuretics. The disorder primarily afflicts young white women between 18-35 years of age. We report the case of a 30-year-old pregnant woman with a 17-year history of bulimia that involved up to six episodes of binging and purging daily. A multidisciplinary approach enabled outpatient management throughout gestation. The pregnancy resulted in the delivery of a normal 3000-g female infant at term. The ramifications for maternal and fetal well-being and the goals of therapeutic management are discussed.