MomBod: Exploring body-related perceptions and the influence of physical activity imagery among postpartum women

Despite the known benefits of PA, many women do not engage in sufficient PA. This study explored postpartum women's perceptions of their body and PA and evaluated whether "realistic" PA imagery may influence perspectives around PA. We created imagery portraying safe, appropriate postpartum exercises and conducted an explanatory sequential mixed methods study. Given the influence of postpartum weight retention on body dissatisfaction we further explored experiences based on postpartum weight retention. Participants (n = 33, M = 31 years) <12 months postpartum completed a questionnaire, and n = 21 completed semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, qualitative data with reflexive thematic analysis. No significant differences were found in body dissatisfaction and PA between weight loss and weight retention groups. Three themes emerged: (1) perceptions of body image and size postpartum, (2) PA imagery preferences, (3) sources of PA information. Findings suggest women experience body dissatisfaction after viewing imagery and desire "realistic" PA imagery.