Pregnancy Changes- Body Image and Expectant Moms

Pregnancy involves a range of mixed issues; it is a time for both physiological and emotional changes. Though complex and it can be uncomfortable, the physical changes are understood.

There are hormonal changes that have been thoroughly studied and medical science is up to the task of maximizing the odds of a good outcome. However, dealing with the psychological issues is less straight forward, but just as significant.

One obvious physical change is that the woman's body becomes larger and rounded as the baby increases in size. Weight gain and the space occupied produce a familiar shape. Different attitudes over the centuries have evolved, with mixed views.

Among some, that change is celebrated, even adored. It's taken as a sign of life, a new life about to enter in this world and something to be cheered. Unfortunately, others may not be so cheerful about the changes.

The problem, when it is a problem, can be increased - often unwittingly - when a partner makes comments that may be or interpreted negatively. Sometimes those are interpreted accurately, other times they may be distorted by natural hormonal changes and the day to day grind. Either way, thinking about attitudes can help one approach the issue more rationally. Knowing what to expect and thinking about possible strategies for addressing the subject is half the battle.

In general though, women with a positive self-image before pregnancy will retain it throughout pregnancy. But low self-esteem, basing it on the wrong foundation, can be exposed during times of radical change, such as pregnancy. That is often found where a woman has attached significance to her appearance to the point of resting her self-esteem on her looks. As those looks change the self-esteem can be dramatically affected.

A way to deal with the emotional rollercoaster ride that may comes with the changing hormones, restricted physical capacity and a changing body shape, is to focus firmly on the positive things. Think of the big picture, the outcome of what it is all about.

Some mothers report a sense of wonder when babies start to first move, and rightly so. Reproduction is one of the most astounding facts of human existence. Being fully conscious of those events provides opportunities to put other issues aside and it helps balance out the 'not so great' days.

Another helpful technique, one oriented toward dealing with remarks from others, involves taking them in context. In other words, consider the source it comes from. Is it from a saint, a jealous spiteful person or from a well meaning friend, that didn’t mean to offend anyone? Most times it doesn't pay to put too much weight on other people’s comments from such people or events.

In the final analysis, a pregnant woman is creating a fresh life through a process that is sometimes difficult at best. Focusing on the outcome, recognizing that even the unpleasant aspects are short-lived and retaining awareness of solid values will maximize the positive aspects of the experience.