Body self-esteem and pregnancy: Subjective experiences in 12 women. An exploratory mixed-methods study

The aim of this study was to explore pregnant women's feeling toward their body. A sample of 12 French women, over the age of 18 years, 14 to 28 weeks pregnant, and without health problem during their pregnancy took part in the study. A semi-structured interview was conducted and two questionnaires were completed: the Questionnaire d'Image du Corps (Bruchon-Schweitzer, 1990) and a short version of the Echelle Toulousaine d'Estime de Soi for adults (Oubrayrie et al., 1994). The questionnaires revealed a score of body image and self-esteem within the upper A correlation between the overall scores was established (rho = 0.72, p < 0.05). Nine of the 12 women were satisfied with their bodies during pregnancy, and three of them were not. Perception of body during pregnancy is complex. Understanding and considering the experience of pregnancy, particularly the concern of pregnant woman's body, would allow better support by family and friends circle and by professionals. (C) 2012 Societe francaise de psychologie. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.