“It’s a catch 22 because your body’s changing massively but you know that your baby’s ok”: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis Study of an Opportunistic Sample of Women’s Experience of Bodily Changes During Pregnancy

Abstract

This study employed an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis approach to explore women’s experiences of bodily changes in pregnancy. This approach allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the complexity of women’s experiences. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. Eight women were interviewed during the third trimester of pregnancy. From analysing the data, five superordinate themes were identified: Internal Conflict, Support From Others, Managing Bodily Changes, Changes in Clothing, and Loss of Fitness. The theme Support From Others had three subordinate themes: Support From Partner, Support From Family and Friends, and Support From Healthcare Professionals. The theme of Loss of Fitness had three subordinate themes: General Fitness, Worry Over Birth, and Comparing to Others. This study found that women experienced body dissatisfaction during pregnancy as they struggled to accept bodily changes. Findings from this study highlighted the value of providing support to women in managing these changes and the need to improve support pregnant women received from healthcare professionals.
Individuals who took part in this study will be referred to as participants and women interchangeably.

Date of Award	31 Mar 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Plymouth
Supervisor	Nicholas Troop (Director of Studies (First Supervisor)) & Jacqui Stedmon (Other Supervisor)