A comparative study to assess the knowledge and attitude regarding prenatal attachment among primigravida women residing in selected urban and rural communities of District Mohali, Punjab

Abstract

Background of the study: The earliest relationship does not begin at birth. The concept of prenatal attachment is defined as the subjective feeling state of love for the unborn child. Developing an attachment for one’s unborn child is considered an important milestone in the future parents’ developmental trajectory. Pregnancy is a natural, pleasant process in a woman’s life, which is also associated with significant stresses due to the physical and mental changes. Evidence suggests that the emergence of maternal-fetal attachment, is a predictive factor for the postpartum maternal attitude and function, mother-infant interaction, and attachment after birth. Mothers with a higher level of fetal attachment during pregnancy have been shown to have more effective interactions with their infants, which in turn has a substantial impact on the growth and emotional, cognitive, and social development of the child. Aim: To compare the knowledge and attitude regarding prenatal attachment among primigravida women residing in selected urban and rural communities. Material and methods: A quantitative research approach with non-experimental comparative research design was adopted to assess the knowledge and attitude regarding prenatal attachment among primigravida women residing in selected urban and rural communities of District Mohali, Punjab. A total of 100 primigravida women i.e., 50 from urban and 50 from rural community were selected using non-probability convenient sampling technique. Results: Present study result showed that in urban community majority of primigravida women (42%) had moderate knowledge; while in rural community majority of primigravida women (56%) had in-adequate knowledge regarding prenatal attachment. Results related to attitude revealed that in urban community majority of primigravida women (62%) had favorable attitude where as in rural community majority of primigravida women (68%) had unfavorable attitude towards prenatal attachment. Conclusion: Based on the findings, the study was urban community has adequate knowledge and favorable attitude then rural community. Hence, the study suggests that considering the importance of prenatal attachment in child’s development and mother’s health, prenatal period can be an appropriate time to educate the women regarding maternal fetal attachment and its importance and benefits of attachment to the fetus.