What is body image? 

Body image is the way we think, feel and relate to our body. From childhood through to adolescence and on to adulthood, body shape changes, and sometimes so does our body image.

For women with endometriosis negative body image can be a problem as physical symptoms such as pain, fatigue, bloating, painful sex, irregular periods and bladder/bowel symptoms can impact the way we feel about our bodies.

Some women with endometriosis may feel that their body has failed them somehow – “The pain, and the not knowing what impact endometriosis is going to have on my life, not only from day to day but in the future. How will my body feel tomorrow? Will I be so bloated I look pregnant? Is my body going to allow me to have children? I don’t feel like I can trust my body.”

How can I improve my body image?

Changing the way that you perceive your body may take time, but can make you feel better about yourself. Try

• Acceptance. This is a hard thing to do but accepting that your body may not function in the way you would like it to can be a good first step, rather than spending your energy being depressed about your body.
• Identify and focus on the positives rather than just focusing on the negatives - what do you love about your body?
• Talk about how you are feeling with other women experiencing endometriosis.
• Try not to compare your body with the women that are portrayed in the media. The bodies of women portrayed in magazines are not realistic as they could have flaws that are airbrushed away and adjusted. Women are beautiful in all shapes and sizes - not just one!
• Treat your body well - physical activity, healthy eating and sleep can make the world of difference to how you feel about your appearance.

If your body image is negatively affecting your day-to-day emotional wellbeing, then seeking professional help may be useful. Look for a counsellor or psychologist who is trained in the area of body image.

Further resources

Australian Psychological Society

Content Updated March 13, 2010