Is there a link between body image and self-compassion among new mums?

4 Sep 2023

Pregnancy and childbirth are a time of huge change, both emotionally and physically, for new mums so it makes sense that these aspects may be intertwined in women’s perceptions of themselves during this period.

Clinical Lead Psychiatrist Dr Zara Zia and Clinical Psychologist Dr Min Loo, both of St John of God Raphael Services, are researching this link and will present their initial findings at this week’s Marce Society and Helen Mayo House Joint Perinatal Mental Health Conference, where clinicians from across Australia, New Zealand and further afield will gather to learn about the latest research in mental health of parents during pregnancy and the time after childbirth. 

“Multiple studies have focussed on exploring the link between body perception and mental wellbeing during this period and we know negative body image can be a risk factor in new mums developing unhelpful coping styles,” said Dr Zia.

Dr Zia said body image issues could be driven by both internal factors, such as cognition, behaviours and emotions, as well as external - or societal - factors like media and close relationships.

Drs Zia and Loo’s research is looking at self-compassion, a known protective factor in contributing to wellbeing, and its role in reduce body image dissatisfaction among new mums.

It is hoped that by promoting self-compassion in this group, it may go some way to reducing the incidence of mental health difficulties during this time.

Dr Loo said the idea for the study was prompted by clinical observations gathered as part of a small initial study at St John of God Raphael Services, a specialist community-based mental health program for expecting and new parents. 

She said in this study, participants noted body image themes such as external pressures, self-esteem, impact on relationships, acceptance and their bodies as a form of nourishment for their baby.

Dr Loo noted further information will be collected on the topic over the coming 12 months.

“If it proves beneficial, we hope to come up with new psychological interventions which promote self-compassion as a means of coping and empowerment for new mums as they transition through the changes in their bodies during the time that they are pregnant and in the months after,” she said.

About St John of God Raphael Services 

From conception through to baby’s fourth birthday, St John of God Raphael Services provides low or no-cost support that empowers new mums and dads to deal with mental health challenges, build a healthy relationship with their baby and thrive as a family. The service also provides support for families going through prenatal screening or those who have experienced pregnancy loss. Go to sjog.org.au/raphael or phone 1800 292 292.

If you need urgent mental health support contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636. In an emergency, phone 000.