75% of new mothers struggle with body image, study finds

Up to 75 per cent of Australian women report concerns about their body image after giving birth, with many feeling pressure to “bounce back” to pre-pregnancy shape.

A review of 36 studies found these struggles are shaped by partners, families and cultural expectations, and that social pressure can even trigger eating disorders for the first time.

The analysis showed that social and interpersonal factors can either protect against or worsen body dissatisfaction and disordered eating during pregnancy and the first year after birth.

Researchers at Flinders University in Australia found that supportive partners and strong social networks help women feel more positive about their bodies, while unrealistic media portrayals and appearance-focused comments can cause harm.

Lead author Madeleine Rhodes, a PhD candidate at Flinders, said: “We wanted to understand how new and expecting mums are affected by the people and environment close to them when it comes to their bodies and eating habits.

“Whilst support from partners, family, friends, and healthcare professionals can help women feel better about their bodies, negative comments and social pressure to ‘bounce back’ make things worse.”

Protective factors included emotional and practical support from loved ones and clear, non-judgemental guidance from healthcare providers.

Risk factors included appearance-related comments, interpersonal abuse and pressure to conform to thin ideals. Some women reported that weight-related advice triggered distress, especially those with a history of eating disorders.

Healthcare professionals were identified as vital sources of reassurance, yet many women said conversations about body changes were absent or overly focused on weight.

Professor Ivanka Prichard, senior author, said: “The cultural obsession with ‘getting your body back’ is harmful and unrealistic.

“This is a public health issue with real consequences for mothers, babies, and families.

“By shifting the focus from individual responsibility to shared support, we can create healthier outcomes for everyone.”