Table 3 Themes/Subthemes
Theme/Subtheme | Description |
|---|---|
Control | Mentions of control either regarding their eating disorder or pregnancy/future pregnancy |
Disclosure to Others | Choice (& decisions in choice) to tell others about their ED, including family/friends or medical professionals |
Battle Between Pregnancy & ED | The internal battle expressed between a woman’s ED & her mothering instinct |
Decision to Have Child | The factors involved in decided whether to have a future child or keep/abort an unplanned pregnancy |
Emotions Towards Pregnancy | Emotions towards pregnancy or initial reactions upon becoming pregnant |
Focus on Child/Greater Good | Focusing on the wellbeing of the child or sacrificing oneself for the ‘greater good’ |
Intergenerational Transmission | Worry regarding whether their children or future children would also suffer from EDs or body image concerns |
Weight & Body Image Concerns | Concerns about body image or weight primarily regarding pregnancy (including pregnancy weight gain & loss, as well as OB weight checks) |
Coping Strategies | Ways expressed to cope with the challenges of a past or future pregnancy |