BMI limitations are a bitch in fertility support. I found it really hard to be knocked back and to get my BMI down.

I was given the option of going to a weight loss group or doing programmed training sessions at a gym. I declined both due a previous history of food anxiety and the inaccessibility of trying to get to gym multiple times a week. Being under constant scrutiny for my weight didn’t feel like a safe option for me.

I decided to go with the HAES approach (Health At Every Size) which although feels slow, has been working out quite well for me and my overall wellbeing. The approach helps reduce fatphobia (internal & external) shame and weight stigma.

HAES works to de-stigmatise weight loss as a health goal and reduces the stigma toward people with fat bodies. The approach runs on five key principles;

1. Weight Inclusivity

2. Health Enhancement through better access to accurate health information and resources.

3. Eating for Wellbeing. Eating based on hunger, satiety, nutritional needs, and pleasure, rather than any externally regulated eating plan focused on weight control.

4. Receiving Respectful Care. Acknowledge our biases, and work to end weight discrimination, weight stigma, and weight bias.

5. Life-Enhancing Movement. Support physical activities that allow people of all sizes, abilities, and interests to engage in enjoyable movement, to the degree that they choose and not be motivated by weight loss.

This approach has definitely helped me to have a different relationship with food and my own perception of my body.

I have been told I need to reduce my BMI, I feel I am doing so at my own pace and without feeling shame or guilt about my food consumption and exercise. They were major barriers for me before.

I’ve learnt not to be restrictive and build up the strength and ability in my body to exercise more. Both these things have boosted my confidence in my body.