The correlation between age, parity, breastfeeding status, weight gain, and contraception with body image among 9-month postpartum women

The postpartum period is a critical transitional period for the mother, baby, and family physiologically, emotionally, and socially. Maternal body satisfaction deteriorates from 1 to 9 months postpartum. Dissatisfaction with the body or negative body image is associated with several factors including weight gain and poor mental health. This study aims to analyze the correlation between age, parity, breastfeeding status, weight gain, contraception, and body image in 9-month postpartum women. This study applied the Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire-Appearance Scale (MBSRQ-AS) to assess the level of body image. There are 50 9-month postpartum women included in this study. The Majority of 9-month postpartum women were having positive body image (72%). Body image at 9-month postpartum women was correlated with breastfeeding status (p<0.05). Although there is no correlation between age, parity, weight gain, contraception, and body image in 9-month postpartum women (p>0.05). From this study, it can be concluded that there is no significant correlation between age, parity, weight gain, contraception, and body image among 9-month postpartum women in the midwifery private practice place, Surabaya.