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A pilot study to explore postpartum body image and resumed menstruation
Anisha Hussain1, Alanta Nalivaikaite1, Jasmine Warren1
1Psychology Department, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
Journal of Reproductive and Infant Psychology
|July 21, 2026
Summary
Postpartum women experience body dissatisfaction and distress, often linked to weight changes and resumed menstruation. Enhanced self-compassion and support can improve postpartum body confidence and well-being.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- The postpartum period (first two years) involves significant physiological changes and vulnerability to distress.
- Body dissatisfaction is heightened by gestational weight gain, societal pressure, and hormonal shifts impacting menstruation.
- Lived experiences of postpartum body image and menstruation resumption are understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experiences of body image and resumed menstruation in the postpartum period.
- To address the gap in literature regarding postpartum body image and menstrual experiences.
Main Methods:
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eleven UK mothers.
- Reflexive thematic analysis was applied to interview transcripts to identify key themes.
Main Results:
- Two major themes emerged: Mind-body feedback and Depletion as a positive feedback loop.
- Participants reported body dissatisfaction, declining self-care, distress from weight gain/hair loss, and mixed views on resumed menstruation.
- Inadequate healthcare guidance and a need for more support regarding postpartum body changes and self-care were highlighted.
Conclusions:
- Reframing body image from appearance to function promotes self-compassion and empowerment.
- Interventions focusing on self-compassion, cognitive-behavioral techniques, menstrual self-monitoring, and improved support systems can enhance postpartum well-being and body confidence.