Overview:
During pregnancy, women often experience shifts in their body image perspective. Health behaviors significantly influence pregnancy outcomes and fetal development. Self-efficacy may serve as a moderator in the relationship between body image perception and positive health behaviors.

Aims and Objectives:
This study aimed to determine whether self-efficacy among pregnant women moderates the relationship between body image and their health behaviors.

Method:
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.

Results:
The mean body esteem (BES) score in the domain of sexual attractiveness was 44.11 ± 7.90, weight concern was 32.44 ± 7.32, and physical condition was 29.20 ± 6.71. The mean positive health behaviors (PHBS) score was 50.50 ± 14.98, while the mean self-efficacy (GSES) score was 30.52 ± 4.46. 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). Concerning weight concerns (p<0.001) and physical condition (p=0.013), the positive impact on positive health behaviors was evident only at moderate and high levels of self-efficacy.

Conclusion:
Positive body image is a factor influencing health behaviors in pregnant women. Those who view their bodies more positively are more likely to adopt healthier behaviors during pregnancy. Self-efficacy plays a moderating role in the relationship between body image and positive health behaviors. The impact of body image on positive health behaviors is more pronounced in women with higher levels of self-efficacy, though this relationship varies across different aspects of body image.