Researchers at Monash University have developed a new model aimed at addressing the pervasive issue of weight stigma experienced by women during pregnancy and the postpartum period. This stigma, which manifests in various social settings, can lead to significant negative health outcomes for both mothers and their children.
Weight stigma is particularly pronounced during the stages of preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum due to societal expectations surrounding body weight and weight gain during these critical periods. Discrimination against women with larger bodies can occur in workplaces, educational institutions, and healthcare environments, often resulting in psychological stress, avoidance of healthcare services, and unhealthy behaviors.
The new model, named SWIPE (Stigma of Weight In the PPP Experience), offers a comprehensive framework for eliminating weight stigma specifically targeting women during preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum. The study, led by Dr. Briony Hill and PhD candidate Ms. Haimanot Hailu from Monash’s School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, was published in the journal Health Psychology Review.
“Women in the preconception, pregnant, and postpartum stages encounter weight stigma across nearly all social domains, including fertility treatment, antenatal and postpartum healthcare, employment, education, media representation, and even interactions with peers and romantic partners,” said Dr. Hill. “The repercussions are profound, with weight stigma linked to increased psychological stress, reluctance to seek healthcare, diminished motivation for healthy behaviors, and disordered eating patterns, which can further exacerbate obesity.”
Despite existing interventions aimed at reducing weight stigma in the general population, there are currently no targeted programs for women in the preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum phases, according to the researchers.
The SWIPE model was developed following an extensive review of the factors contributing to weight stigma. It addresses the societal norms that perpetuate stigma, such as the expectation for women to conform to thinness ideals before pregnancy and the pressure to return to pre-pregnancy weight after childbirth. The model also highlights the role of environments and policies that reinforce these stigmatizing attitudes.
Dr. Hill emphasized that societal beliefs, such as the notion that body size is entirely within individual control, contribute significantly to weight stigma. Women often experience this stigma through unwelcome public scrutiny, social exclusion, and inadequate media representation of larger-bodied women in the preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum stages.
The impact of demographic factors, including race, socioeconomic status, body mass index (BMI), and self-perception of weight, also influences the degree of stigma experienced by these women.
According to Ms. Hailu, the SWIPE model serves as a valuable tool for researchers and program developers aiming to combat weight stigma against larger-bodied women across various societal domains. “SWIPE outlines the ‘who, what, and how’ that can be targeted to eliminate weight stigma for women during the preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum periods,” she stated.
Conclusion
By addressing weight stigma, the researchers believe that psychological well-being can be improved, equitable access to care can be ensured, and healthier behaviors can be encouraged. These changes are expected to enhance the overall physical and mental health outcomes for both women and their children during these critical life stages.
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