This exposé shines a harsh light on a deeply troubling and dangerous trend among some women in Nigeria who resort to pregnancy and abortion as a method for gaining weight in “desired” areas of their bodies. The investigation, led by journalist Godfrey George, uncovers a subculture where women, particularly in southern regions such as Delta State, manipulate pregnancy for aesthetic purposes, only to abort the fetus after their bodies have gained weight.
The pressure to conform to societal beauty standards, which idolize curves and fuller bodies, seems to be at the root of this disturbing behavior. The idea of pregnancy as a weight-gain strategy has been circulating in these communities for over a decade. Many women believe that pregnancy leads to weight gain, particularly in the breasts, hips, and thighs, and once these desired effects are achieved, they terminate the pregnancy, often through illegal and unsafe means.
The article details tragic cases, such as that of a young woman named Prisca, who bled to death after an abortion carried out by unqualified providers. This trend is exacerbated by societal pressures, peer influence, and the normalization of extreme measures to achieve a certain body image. The pursuit of an “ideal” body can push these women to repeat this harmful process, risking their health and fertility.
Healthcare professionals, from retired nurses to gynecologists, confirm the existence of this trend and express concern over its widespread nature. Unsafe abortions, which are common in Nigeria due to restrictive laws, lead to complications such as sepsis, hemorrhaging, and infertility. Despite the well-known risks, some women continue this practice, encouraged by the temporary validation they receive for their altered appearance.
The article also underscores the role of social media in perpetuating this trend, as platforms like TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) become breeding grounds for such discussions. Many women openly admit to undergoing pregnancy and abortion for weight gain, treating it as a quick fix for body image issues.
Mental health experts weigh in, suggesting that this behavior may stem from body dysmorphic disorder and low self-esteem, amplified by a society that prioritizes physical appearance over intrinsic qualities. The cultural obsession with curvaceous bodies, often reinforced by male partners and societal expectations, drives these women to dangerous extremes, showcasing the destructive impact of beauty ideals.
Ultimately, this practice highlights the intersections of vanity, societal pressure, and mental health, leaving a trail of physical and emotional destruction in its wake. The exposé calls for urgent attention to the mental health needs of women caught in this cycle and stresses the importance of safe, non-exploitative methods of achieving body confidence.
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