Journal article
A systematic review of influences and outcomes of body image in postpartum via a socioecological framework
Journal of reproductive and infant psychology, Vol.43(3), pp.789-826
2025
Appears in Recent Faculty of Education Publications
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Abstract
Background: Women in the postpartum period come under multi-level pressure to return to pre-pregnancy body shape and size. This pressure can lead to reduced body image satisfaction, self-esteem, and mood. In this systematic review we explored the influences and outcomes of body dissatisfaction during the postpartum period.
Methods: Four databases were searched using keywords: postpart* OR postnatal OR peripart* OR 'new mother' OR 'breast feed*' AND 'body image' OR 'body dissatisf*' OR 'body satisf*' OR 'body attitude' OR 'body shape'.
Results: The influences and outcomes of body image dis/satisfaction in the postpartum period from 55 international studies were found to align within four of the five factors of the socioecological model. Intrapersonal factors: weight and body shape concerns, mental health and stressors, attitudes and behaviours, and protective coping skills and interventions. Interpersonal factors: social support (partner, family, and friends) and sexual functioning. Institutional factors: experiences with the healthcare system and returning to work. Societal factors: culture and ethnicity, media influences and social norms such as the thin ideal. Conclusions: A focus on intrapersonal factors alone is insufficient to understand women's experiences of body dis/satisfaction during the postpartum period. This suggests a need for better education and policy practices in pre-natal and postpartum care directed at body image and education to dispel societal norms such as the thin ideal. Doing so shifts the focus to include interpersonal, institutional , and societal influences alongside intrapersonal experiences. Research is needed to explore the utility and efficacy of broader approaches for women during this vulnerable life period.
Details
- Title
- A systematic review of influences and outcomes of body image in postpartum via a socioecological framework
- Creators
- Megan F. Lee (Corresponding Author) - Bond UniversityKathryn Bolton (Author) - University of QueenslandJulian Madsen (Author) - Monash UniversityKarena Burke (Contributor) - Central Queensland University
- Publication Details
- Journal of reproductive and infant psychology, Vol.43(3), pp.789-826
- Publisher
- Routledge
- Identifiers
- 991013139613802368
- Academic Unit
- Faculty of Education
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article