Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial of the BODYPOSI digital body image intervention for improving body image among postpartum women

The high prevalence of body image concerns during the transition to motherhood underscores the need for theory-driven, accessible interventions that promote positive body image, reduce body dissatisfaction, and enhance women's resilience to unrealistic appearance ideals. This paper presents the protocol for a two-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluating the effectiveness of BODYPOSI, a four-week digital self-help program based on positive body image theory. The trial will include women between 6 weeks and 12 months postpartum, who will be randomly assigned to either the intervention or a waitlist control group. Primary outcomes will include body appreciation, body functionality appreciation, appearance and weight satisfaction, evaluation of postpartum body changes, and perceived sociocultural appearance pressure related to postpartum body changes. Secondary outcomes will include postnatal depressive and anxiety symptoms, self-compassion, and general health status. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and three-month follow-up. Analyses will compare changes between the intervention and control groups and examine the maintenance of intervention effects at follow-up for intervention group. If shown to be effective, BODYPOSI has the potential to improve body image and psychological well-being among postpartum women while supporting the wider implementation of accessible digital interventions in postpartum care.