In the era of social media and heightened body awareness, images of women with diverse body types—particularly curvier figures—have become increasingly common. While some online content sensationalizes these traits, it’s important to approach the topic respectfully and factually. A woman’s body shape, including having wider hips or a larger gluteal area, is influenced by genetics, hormones, lifestyle, and overall health—not by unsubstantiated or suggestive assumptions.

This article explores what current research and health experts say about body composition, hip-to-waist ratio, and socio-cultural perceptions of curvy body types, drawing from verified sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), Harvard Health, and peer-reviewed medical studies.

What Determines Body Shape?

A woman’s body shape is primarily influenced by genetics. Factors such as bone structure, fat distribution, muscle mass, and hormonal balance all contribute to whether someone naturally has a pear-shaped, apple-shaped, hourglass, or rectangular figure.

Estrogen, the primary female sex hormone, plays a key role in fat distribution. During puberty and adulthood, women tend to store fat around the hips, thighs, and buttocks. This fat storage is part of normal biological development and may serve