Weight stigma in preconception, pregnancy and postpartum women: A socioecological perspective

RESEARCH PROFILE

Michelle Dever

Weight stigma in preconception, pregnancy and postpartum women: A socioecological perspective

Michelle Dever is a naturopath, nutritionist, and PhD student in the Health and Social Care Unit.

Her research is centered around unravelling the profound experiences of weight stigma in women during the preconception, pregnant, and postpartum (PPP) years.

With society’s relentless emphasis on conforming to the ‘thin body ideal’, Michelle acknowledges the unique challenges these women face in navigating weight-related expectations. The complex interplay of societal pressures surrounding weight management, particularly in relation to pregnancy weight-gain, and postpartum weight-loss, creates a particularly challenging environment which magnifies the effects of weight stigma in this population.

Michelle’s research focusses on identifying the key sources of weight stigma among PPP women, and examining their impact on body image, and self-esteem from the women’s perspective. Her findings will contribute to the development of strategies aimed at addressing weight stigma in PPP women, and serving as a basis for future research in this crucial area.

For more information: Michelle.Dever@monash.edu