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I’ve always dreaded doctor appointments. It’s not the physicians themselves that I mind; it’s the overall experience that leaves me feeling uneasy. Sure, I can tolerate needles for vaccines or fasting for blood tests, but it’s the scale that has always been the real issue, leaving a lasting impact on my body image.
Growing up, I’ve always struggled with my weight. Every memory I have since becoming aware of my body involves feeling overweight. I wish I could say those memories are muddled or the result of years of body dysmorphia, but they are not. These feelings were only deepened by my pediatrician, who repeatedly reminded my mom and me about my size.
It wasn’t entirely his fault, though. Back then, BMI was considered the gold standard, even if it was based on outdated metrics. Society in the late ’90s also placed undue emphasis on thinness, while mental health discussions were still largely stigmatized. If you didn’t have a negative body image, it felt as if something was amiss. Reflecting on how much those early experiences shaped my mental and emotional well-being is heartbreaking and infuriating.
A 2016 study in the Journal of Pediatrics revealed that children as young as 9 to 14 years old were unhappy with their body shape. Isn’t that tragic? Shouldn’t kids be focused on more innocent concerns, like whether they can have more screen time or if I’ll buy that item they added to the cart at Target?
I want my kids’ doctor visits to be stress-free, especially when it comes to weighing in and fitting into growth percentiles (the annual flu shot is battle enough). That’s why I’m attentive to how their doctor interacts with them.
She inquires about their favorite foods, drinks, fun activities, and even what’s been the best part of their week. This approach matters. There are no “good” or “bad” foods; it’s refreshing to hear that food doesn’t carry moral baggage. Some foods provide more energy, while others don’t give as much. And discussing exercise as something enjoyable, rather than a punishment? That’s a game-changer.
Asking about friends and feelings is essential for understanding their social-emotional development. Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health.
I might be more cautious than most regarding my children’s experiences with their healthcare providers, but I want to prevent them from walking the path I did. After my second daughter was born, I avoided going to my doctor for four years. I kept telling myself I would go after losing the last bit of baby weight. Eventually, I lost the weight but still didn’t go—I wasn’t “thin enough” to face the scale.
When I finally visited the doctor after those four years, I had developed numerous unhealthy habits and even faced serious health issues. Now, as an adult, I can spot body shaming from a mile away, but as a child, all I heard was that I was “fat,” and that made me feel bad about myself. I am a living testament to how negative comments from pediatricians can shape a child’s body image for life. If your child has had a similar experience, it’s time to find a new doctor who promotes body positivity as soon as possible.
While I can’t change my past, I won’t let my daughters endure the same struggles. It’s one thing for children to hear from their parents that they are strong and beautiful; hearing it from a doctor carries more weight. If a doctor can’t affirm your child’s worth, they shouldn’t contribute to any negative self-image.
If you’re interested in more information on this topic, check out this related blog post. For those exploring home insemination options, Cryobaby at Home Insemination Kit also provides valuable insights. Additionally, IVF and Fertility Preservation can be an excellent resource for pregnancy and related discussions.
For further reading, consider these search queries:
- How to choose a pediatrician
- Body positivity for kids
- Understanding BMI in children
- Healthy eating habits for kids
- Managing anxiety during doctor visits
In summary, it’s critical to ensure that your child’s healthcare experience is positive and supportive. If you notice any negative comments about their body from their pediatrician, don’t hesitate to seek a new provider who prioritizes body acceptance.
Keyphrase: Pediatrician Body Image Concerns
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