Prenatal loss of control eating is associated with psychiatric symptoms and distress among individuals with elevated BMI.

PURPOSE: Loss of control while eating (LOC) or feeling unable to control the amount or type of food consumed during an eating episode, is the core psychopathology in binge eating disorders. Yet, the impact of LOC on other psychiatric symptoms during pregnancy is not known. This study evaluated the contribution of prenatal LOC to psychological distress and disordered eating attitudes.

METHODS

Pregnant individuals with BMI ≥ 25 (N = 312) recruited for a perinatal health promotion trial self-reported past-month LOC; eating, shape, and weight concerns; prenatal depressive symptoms, anxiety, and stress. Propensity scores were used to reduce bias associated with cross-sectional data.

RESULTS

Overall, 34.3% (n = 107) reported LOC. Individuals with prenatal LOC, relative to those without, endorsed more eating disorder symptoms (ps<.001) as well as more symptoms of depression (7.1±0.3 vs. 5.4±4.9) and anxiety (38.1 ± 11.7 vs. 33.4 ± 11.7) and greater perceived stress (25.0 ± 7.9 vs. 22.0±9.9, ps<.001). LOC frequency was associated with significantly more prenatal psychological distress, beyond the effect of other factors that increase the likelihood of LOC. (ps<.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Among individuals with elevated BMI, prenatal LOC is common and relates to eating disorder and other psychiatric symptoms. Prenatal LOC may represent a behavioral mechanism for improved psychological health.