Hi Catherine,

Panic attacks when baby nurses may signal a history of sexual abuse, which is
also not unusual in women with eating disorders. With this mother, I would
focus less on the specific symptoms eg the tingling down her leg, and more on
her feelings about breastfeeding and being a new mother. It is likely there
will be more symptoms and more complaints. Is she currently in therapy, or
ever been treated for her eating disorder ? This mother likely has a lot of
baggage and a prime time for it to play out/act up is the early post-partum
period. Be specially careful not to open up the*possibility of sexual abuse*
can of worms. Let her tell you if she wants to. If this is a factor, she
might not be consciously aware of it or ready to talk about it.

Beverley Rae, MSW CSW IBCLC wearing both her hats at once