The Role of Social Media Usage in the Impact of Body Image on Disordered Eating Attitudes During the Third Trimester of Pregnancy

Abstract

ObjectiveSocial media use can negatively impact both physical and mental well-being by influencing aspects like body image and potentially leading to eating disorders. This issue is particularly significant during pregnancy, a time when maternal and foetal health are heavily influenced by nutrition. This study aims to examine how social media use affects the relationship between body image and disordered eating attitudes in the third trimester of pregnant women.MethodA cross-sectional survey was conducted with a convenience sample of 368 pregnant women during their routine prenatal visits. Data collection occurred between May 2023 to May 2024, utilising the Social Media Use Integration Scale, the Disordered Eating Attitudes in Pregnancy Scale and the Body Image in Pregnancy Scale. The study's hypotheses were analysed using structural equation modelling.ResultsThe study demonstrated significant positive correlations among body image perception, disordered eating attitudes, and social media use during the third trimester of pregnancy. Particularly, higher levels of social media use exacerbated the negative effects of body image perception on disordered eating attitudes. The overall model explained 29.21% of the variance in disordered eating attitudes, with social media use playing a significant moderating role.ConclusionThese findings suggest that negative body image perceptions and social media use affect disordered eating attitudes in the third trimester of pregnant women. Furthermore, social media use serves as a significant moderator, increasing the negative effects of body image concerns. Healthcare providers should take into account the influence of social media on pregnant women's body image and eating behaviours when developing intervention strategies. Implementing educational programs that promote a positive body image perception and enhance media literacy could be beneficial.