Abstract
Thirty-four body measurements of 70 pregnant and nursing women were taken serially from the 4th month to the 10th month of pregnancy and in the 1st month after childbirth. The data were factor-analyzed and subjected to Varimax rotation by the month. According to the factor structure, the following 4 phases were identified : Phase I (the 4-5th month), Phase II (the 6th month), Phase III (7-10th month) and Phase IV (after childbirth).
Phase I involved girth factor, height and length factor, and posture factor, thus showing normal body structure. Phase III involved girth factor, height and length factor, and pregnancy factor. This last factor was supposed as specifically concerned with pregnancy. Phase II might be a turning phase in the bodily change of pregnant women. Finally, the application of the present results for making maternity clothes was suggested.
