Eating Disorders in the Perinatal Period

This presentation addresses the intersection of eating disorders (ED) and perinatal mental health through a cross-cultural lens, specifically examining how weight stigma, systemic racism, and heteronormativity exacerbate risk factors for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ individuals. We explore how cultural beauty ideals and medical biases lead to the underdiagnosis of EDs in marginalized groups and how food insecurity contributes to eating disorders and often impacts oppressed groups the most. Participants will learn about racial disparities in PMAD outcomes and birth complications. By integrating Relational-Cultural Theory, the presentation shares how relational images impact which individuals get screened and how clinicians can use evidence-based screenings to be culturally responsive.