Does Parity have an Effect on Fetal Behavior? A Comparison between Primi- and Multiparas

Abstract

ABSTRACT Aim To evaluate the effect of parity on fetal behavior between primi- and multiparas. Materials and methods Fetal behavior was assesed by Kurjak's antenatal neurodevelopmental test (KANET) using four-dimensional (4D) ultrasound between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation. Forty-four primiparous and 61 multiparous women were studied. The total value of the KANET score and values of each parameter (8 parameters) were compared Results The total KANET score was normal in both groups except for in only one case in the multiparous group (total KANET score of 9), and there was no significant difference in the total KANET score. When individual KANET parameters were compared, we found a significant difference in only one fetal movement, isolated eye blinking, between fetuses of primiparas (median, 2; range, 0–2) and multiparas (median, 1; range, 0–2) (p < 0.040). No significant differences were noted in the other seven parameters. Conclusion Our results suggest that the level of relaxation of pregnant women may affect fetal behavior, particularly the rate of eye blinking. A relaxed state of primiparas may promote the maturation of the fetal brain, especially the central dopamine system function How to cite this article Hata T, Hanaoka U, AboEllail MAM, Uematsu R, Noguchi J, Kusaka T, Kurjak A. Does Parity have an Effect on Fetal Behavior? A Comparison between Primiand Multiparas. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2016;10(1):99-102.