Postpartum Body Dysmorphia: How to Love and Accept Your Body
During the postpartum period, women are the most dissatisfied with their bodies. The postpartum period is defined as occurring in or being the period following childbirth. This period is often associated with significant changes to the weight, shape, and size of a woman’s body. For many women, this is an adjustment that results in negative feelings toward their body. Research has shown that body dissatisfaction is higher during the postpartum period compared to other periods of life, and these feelings of body dissatisfaction are in a state of fluctuation during postpartum.
Body dysmorphic disorder is a mental health condition in which you can't stop thinking about one or more perceived defects or flaws in your appearance — a flaw that appears minor or can't be seen by others. Postpartum body dysmorphia (PBD) is characterized by a distorted body image and a persistent focus on perceived flaws in one's appearance after childbirth. PBD can be very distressing and can lead to a range of negative emotions, including anxiety, depression, and social isolation.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to PBD, including:
Hormonal changes: The hormonal changes during pregnancy and childbirth can lead to changes in body shape and size. These changes can be complex for some women to adjust to, and they can contribute to feelings of body dissatisfaction.
Social pressure: There is a lot of pressure on women to look a certain way after childbirth. This pressure can come from social media, from friends and family, and from society as a whole. It can make it difficult for women to accept their bodies and to feel good about themselves.
History of body image concerns: Women who have a history of body image concerns are more likely to develop PBD after childbirth. This is because they may be more likely to focus on their perceived flaws and to have negative thoughts about their bodies.
History of disordered eating: Current or past history of eating disorders have been associated with increased depression and anxiety, both during and after pregnancy, compared to women without a history of an eating disorder. Taken together, it is clear that current or past experiences with an eating disorder and/or body image dissatisfaction present complex mental health challenges for women during the perinatal period.
If you believe that you are struggling with PBD, there are a number of things you can do to cope:
Talk to someone you trust: Talking about your emotions can make you feel less isolated and aid in emotional processing.
Seek professional help: If you are struggling to cope on your own, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist can help you to develop coping strategies and to manage your body image concerns.
Challenge negative thoughts: When you have negative thoughts about your body, challenge them. Ask yourself some of the following questions, Is there substantial evidence for my thoughts, Is there evidence contrary to my thoughts, What would a friend think, or will this matter a year from now?
Focus on the positive: Focus on the things you like about your body. What are you grateful for? What are your strengths?
Take care of yourself: Ensure adequate sleep, healthy eating, and regular exercise to enhance mood and well-being.
Many women experience Body Dysmorphia after childbirth. Here are some additional resources on postpartum body dysmorphia:
The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): NEDA is a national organization that provides support and advocacy for people with eating disorders.
The Postpartum Support International (PSI): PSI is an organization that provides support and information for women who are experiencing postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.
4th Trimester Body Project: is a documentary and movement dedicated to educating, embracing, and empowering humans through photographs and storytelling.
Self-care for body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) - Mind: an organization dedicated to providing psychoeducation to all.
I hope this blog post has been helpful. If you are struggling with PBD, please reach out for help. There are many resources available to you, and you are not alone.
If you are looking for a therapist or if you are interested in services offered at Safe Space Therapeutic, please book a free consultation here.
