The Relationship between Psychological Wellbeing and Body Image in Pregnant Women

Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research1735-906623320180505The Relationship between Psychological Wellbeing and Body Image in Pregnant Women167171ENSchool of Nursing and Midwifery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, IranSchool of Nursing and Midwifery,Isfahan University of Medical Sciences,Isfahan,IranDepartment of Educational Science and Psychology, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran2018050520180505Background: The aim of the present study was to determine the association between body image and psychological wellbeing during pregnancy.Materials and Methods: This descriptive correlational study was conducted on 320 pregnant women who were referred to health centers in Isfahan, Iran, during 2016 and had the inclusion criteria. They were selected by nonprobability convenient sampling. Data were gathered using standard psychological wellbeing and body image satisfaction questionnaires. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software by descriptive and inferential statistical methods.Results: The results showed that the mean (SD) score of psychological wellbeing among participants was 77.50 (10.10) and their mean (SD) score of satisfaction with body image was 89.30 (14.60). Moreover, the results revealed a positive and significant relationship between the scores of psychological wellbeing and body image satisfaction (r=0.354, p <0.001). The results of regression analysis showed that the two variables of self‑acceptance (t = 5.6, p <0.001) and personal growth (t = 2.06, p = 0.04)) can predict body image in pregnant women.Conclusions: The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between body image satisfaction and psychological wellbeing. Therefore, the training of positive attitude with respect to body image or increasing the level of knowledge on psychological wellbeing can create a positive cycle for these variables, and thus, make the pregnancy more enjoyable and acceptable.http://ijnmr.mui.ac.ir/index.php/ijnmr/article/view/1530http://ijnmr.mui.ac.ir/index.php/ijnmr/article/download/1530/70707085