Body experience during pregnancy.

Abstract

The mental picture of the body is challenged by the profound physical changes and sensations accompanying pregnancy. Encompassed by this body experience in pregnancy are the perceptual and attitudinal dimensions of body image and the kinesthetic experience associated with body schema. Although it is the woman's body that undergoes the physical alterations of pregnancy, recent evidence indicates that the body experience is shared by the woman and her partner. Through a review of the research and other literature, this article focuses on the body experience of the pregnant woman, her partner, and the aspects of this experience shared by the couple. Findings from the literature are used to discuss implications for nursing practice in family‐centered maternity care.