Clinical management of females seeking fertility treatment and of pregnant females with eating disorders

The presence of eating disorders (EDs) might have a significant impact upon pregnancy, birth, and the offspring's well-being. Thus, several specific aspects are to be considered by medical professionals when females with EDs either become pregnant or intend to undergo fertility treatment. Clinical management algorithms for gynaecologists and fertility specialists are missing. Here, based on currently available evidence on the topic, specific clinical recommendations are presented. Treatment by a mental health professional may be necessary for pregnant females suffering from acute EDs or prior to fertility treatment. Because the regulation of the menstrual cycle is known to be induced in the course of ED-specific treatment due to weight gain and eating behaviour stabilization, the necessity and drawbacks of fertility treatments in females with EDs are discussed.