Preventing Medical fatphobia in the Perinatal Period: Toward Inclusive and Compassionate Weight-Related Practices 

Fatphobia can take different forms during the perinatal period, such as attributing all health problems experienced by women solely to their weight, or using weight-focused language based on fear and guilt.

To document the phenomenon in Quebec, a survey was conducted in the fall of 2025 among 376 women in the perinatal period.

• 26% of respondents said that being stigmatized caused them to lose trust in medical staff.
• 27% of women surveyed had experienced medical fatphobia during the perinatal period, and 69% reported that this led to body dissatisfaction.

In addition, during this period, medical fatphobia represents an additional risk because:

• Women often meet with healthcare professionals.
• The physical and mental health of the mother has an impact on that of the baby.
• The perinatal period is synonymous with significant physical and psychological changes during which body image can be fragile.

Healthcare professionals and perinatal settings (professional associations, organizations, healthcare institutions, etc.) can implement respectful and inclusive practices with regard to weight.

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