How Having Kids Helped Me Heal from an Eating Disorder — A Surprising Journey

Have you ever been terrified that pregnancy could bring back old demons? I certainly was. For years, I wrestled silently with an eating disorder. The thought of pregnancy wasn’t just exciting — it was terrifying. Would carrying a child trigger those painful thoughts again? Would my body, changing so rapidly, betray me?

I wasn’t alone in this worry. A recent article from Business Insider titled “I worried having kids would trigger my eating disorder. It actually changed my relationship with my body for the better.” really resonated with me. It opened my eyes to a narrative I hadn’t seen portrayed enough: that pregnancy can heal rather than harm your relationship with your body.

The Fear Before the Miracle

For many with eating disorders, the body is a battlefield — a place of pain, control, and sometimes, shame. The idea of pregnancy means confronting a body that’s changing uncontrollably. I feared losing control, gaining weight, and falling back into destructive patterns.

But what actually happened was the exact opposite.

A New Way to See My Body

Pregnancy transformed how I saw myself. Instead of a source of anxiety, my body became this incredible vessel creating life. It was a miracle I couldn’t ignore.

That shift in perspective didn’t happen overnight. It came with challenges, yes. But each day I learned to appreciate what my body was doing — the strength it showed, the resilience it embodied.

Beyond Pregnancy: The Journey to Motherhood

This transformation didn’t stop once my child was born. Motherhood deepened this connection with my body. I started to celebrate what my body could do, rather than criticize what it looked like.

For those of us on non-traditional fertility paths, like at-home insemination, this journey can be even more complex. The process involves hope, patience, and often a sprinkle of anxiety.

That’s where companies like MakeAMom quietly and powerfully support families. They offer at-home insemination kits that are thoughtfully designed — catering to different needs like low sperm motility or sensitivities — and importantly, they package everything discreetly, respecting the privacy so many desire in their fertility journey.

The Beauty of Discreet Support

Why is discreet packaging so important? Because fertility can be a deeply personal, sensitive topic. It’s something not everyone feels comfortable broadcasting. Knowing that your insemination kit arrives plain and unmarked can lift a huge weight off your shoulders.

MakeAMom’s reusable kits not only save money compared to disposable options but also provide a more intimate, private experience in the comfort of your own home. This kind of support can help reduce stress — and as we know, stress isn’t helpful when trying to conceive.

Healing, One Step at a Time

My story isn’t just about pregnancy or overcoming an eating disorder. It’s about reclaiming my relationship with my body and reshaping what fertility means to me.

If you’re navigating these waters, remember: it’s okay to have fears, but also know healing is possible. Whether you’re seeking support through technology like at-home insemination kits or simply looking to change your mindset, the journey is yours — and it can be beautiful.

What About You?

Have you or someone you know experienced a similar transformation? How has pregnancy or parenthood changed your view of your body or your health struggles? I’d love to hear your stories or questions in the comments below.

Remember, every body is a miracle — and sometimes, the process of creating life is the greatest act of healing we can experience.