Perception and Practice of Mothers Regarding Body Image After Delivery

Abstract

Introduction: The postnatal period is associated with significant bodily changes that may negatively influence a mother’s perception and practices of her body image. Poor body image may lower self-esteem and well-being, while support, proper guidance, and self-acceptance can promote a healthier adjustment. The present study aimed to explore the perception and practice of mothers regarding body image after delivery

Materials and Methods: Quantitative, non- experimental cross sectional descriptive research design was adopted for the study. Non probability purposive sampling was used to collect data from 100 mothers. The tools used were rating scales prepared by the researchers to explore the perception of mothers regarding body image after delivery and to identify the practices of mothers regarding body image after delivery. The content validity index of body image perception rating scale was 0.97 and body image practice rating scale was 0.96. The reliability of body image perception rating scale was 0.91 and body image practice rating scale was 0.80. The data was collected from 11/02/26 to 25/02/26.  The data was analysed using descriptive statistics.

Result: The study results showed that 71% of mothers had moderate perception regarding the body image after delivery, 16% had positive perception and 13% had negative perception regarding body image after delivery and the study also found that majority (82%) of mothers had moderately healthy practice, 15% had healthy practice and 3% had unhealthy practice regarding body image after delivery, indicating the need for targeted education and awareness programs to promote a healthier body image and healthy practices among postnatal mothers.

Conclusion: The study concluded the importance of proper education, counselling, and support from healthcare professionals to help mothers develop a healthy and positive body image after delivery.