Self-efficacy as a moderator in the relationship between body image and health behaviors in pregnant women

During pregnancy, women often experience shifts in their body image perspective. Active engagement in positive health behaviors is crucial for achieving optimal pregnancy outcomes and promoting healthy fetal development. In this context, self-efficacy may influence how body image perception translates into such behaviors.This study aimed to determine whether self-efficacy among pregnant women moderates the relationship between body image and their health behaviors. The study was conducted from December 2023 to July 2024, involving 921 pregnant women in Poland. A diagnostic survey method using a questionnaire technique was applied. The research instruments included the generalized self-efficacy scale, body esteem scale, positive health behavior scale, and a standardized interview questionnaire. Pregnant women with a more positive attitude toward their bodies demonstrated a greater tendency to engage in positive health behaviors during pregnancy (p < 0.001). For sexual attractiveness, a positive association with positive health behaviors was maintained across all levels of self-efficacy (p < 0.001). A significant positive association with positive health behaviors was found for weight concerns (p < 0.001) and physical condition (p = 0.013), but only at moderate and high levels of self-efficacy. The impact of body image on positive health behaviors is more pronounced in women with higher levels of self-efficacy, although this relationship varies across different aspects of body image.