The Clinical Guide to Fertility

The Clinical Guide to Fertility, Motherhood and Eating Disorders: From Shame to Self-Acceptance

“My body is broken; I am broken.” “I don’t want this child.” “Am I worthy enough to be a parent?” These are the voices of eating disorders, shame, and infertility. Research has shown that 20.7% of patients struggling with infertility have had an eating disorder. Psychotherapy with this population can reveal shame rooted in unexpected difficulties in conception, pregnancy or early motherhood. The lack of open discussion around these topics increases internalized judgment and self-criticism. This book will focus on issues arising from challenges conceiving, sustaining a healthy pregnancy, and mother-child bonding in women who have had or currently have an eating disorder. Kate, who has been through an eating disorder and infertility herself, will share her story as well as the stories of many other women who have experienced these issues. She weaves a theme of resiliency and hope through the book to foster healing and self-acceptance and provides tools and resources to help clients in this population.