Evaluation of body image perception in postpartum women: Grounded theory study

Objective: Many women want to regain their pre-pregnancy body after the postpartum period. With the addition of a workload to the postpartum home care burden of women, it is thought that they will spare less time for themselves and this will affect their body image perception. This research aims to analyze perception of body image in women who have returned to work in postpartum period Method: This is a qualitative research using grounded theory research method in the research. In the study, 22 volunteers who were actively involved in the business life, who completed their third month in the postpartum period and have not completed one year, were interviewed face to face. The data were collected through in-depth interviews with personal information form and semi-structured form. The data obtained was coded as open, axial and selective and based on a basic theory. Results: As a result of the codings, the basic category was "I wish I regained my old body after birth… but I need to be supported." The expression was determined, three main categories "Weight fluctuations and body shape", "Body-related perception", "Suggestions for improving body image perception" and six sub-categories were created. Conclusion: Research shows that working mothers in the postpartum period find it difficult to devote time to themselves and their bodies due to their increased responsibilities. Inability to reach the desired weight after birth and sagging breasts were determined to be the most common complaints. It was concluded that the negative body image perception is dominant after birth. All women are recommended to be given counseling for effective weight management in postpartum period. Key words: body image, nursing, postpartum period, women