Inpatient Obstetric Nurse (NCC) Practice Exam

The psychological effect often referred to as the "mask of pregnancy" can lead to decreased body image satisfaction in expectant mothers. This phenomenon is associated with the physical changes that occur during pregnancy, including weight gain, hormonal fluctuations, and skin changes. Many women may struggle to reconcile their evolving bodies with their pre-pregnancy self-image, which can result in feelings of insecurity or dissatisfaction regarding their appearance.

While pregnancy can indeed lead to increased self-esteem for some women, this is not universally experienced. Additionally, heightened sociability and boosted mental clarity can be situational and vary widely from person to person. Instead, the impact on body image is more consistently noted as a concern, as the societal pressures and personal expectations around body shape and appearance can significantly affect a mother's emotional wellbeing during this transformative time.