Body Image Perception and Self-esteem During Pregnancy

Objectives:The aim of this study is to examine the change in body image perception (BIP) and evaluate self-esteem levels during pregnancy.Material and Methods: This study includes totally 180 females having similar demographic features, i.e. 30 non-pregnant (control group) and 50 pregnant women from each trimester (first, second and third trimester groups) at an Obstetrics Outpatient Department of a university hospital.BIP and self-esteem scores have been compared among the groups.Data relating to all participants have been obtained by using socio-demographic data form, body image scale and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES).Results: All demographic features have been found to be similar among the groups.The body mass index (BMI) was higher in the third trimester of pregnancy compared to other groups; whereas BIP was significantly worse in the third trimester group compared to the first trimester and control groups (P < .05).There was a negative correlation between trimesters of pregnancy and BIP (Rho = -0.221;P = .003).Self-esteem was detected at a relatively higher level in first trimester group compared to the second and third trimester groups (P < .05).Conclusion: BIP levels have declined during the pregnancy period and self-esteem has been observed at a higher level in the first trimester compared to the advanced trimesters of pregnancy.