Effect of Body Image on Gestational Weight Gain: a Systematic Review

AbstractPurpose of ReviewGestational weight gain (GWG) outside of the range recommended by the Institute of Medicine occurs in approximately two-thirds of pregnancies. The current review summarizes recent findings regarding the impact of body image on GWG.Recent FindingsEleven studies examined the association between body image and GWG in the past 5  years with the majority finding that poor body image was associated with greater GWG, although other studies had non-significant results. Overall, studies remain limited by the measurement tools used to assess body image; insufficient consideration of the roles of depression, social support, self- esteem, and self-efficacy; and a focus on non-Hispanic white populations.SummaryCurrent epidemiological evidence suggests that body dissatisfaction is likely associated with higher GWG. Future studies would be strengthened by the inclusion of validated measures of body image during pregnancy, consideration of other psychological factors, and inclusion of diverse populations.
Source: Current Epidemiology Reports - Category: Epidemiology Source Type: research