Factors affecting the maternal-fetal attachment during pregnancy

Abstract

Background: Maternal-fetal attachment is intangible connection and maintains a bond between mother and baby in her womb which is considered an important part of fetal development and this attachment can be affected by different factors. This study was aimed to identify the factors affecting the maternal-fetal attachment during pregnancy. Design: A descriptive design was used. Subjects: A purposive sample including 100 pregnant women were participated. Setting: Antenatal Clinics of Al-Azhar University Hospital in New Damietta City, Damietta Governorate, in Egypt. Tools: A structure Interview Questionnaire, Cranley’s Maternal-Fetal attachment Scale (CMFAS), Fetal position awareness scale (FPAS). Results: There was a positive and significant relationship between the mean of MFA in mothers with the history of fetal loss and presence of support provider and strong attachment to mother, on the other hand this study confirmed that a statistically significant negative correlation between MFA and pregnant woman's gravidity. Conclusion: Maternal fetal attachment is associated significantly and positively with multiple factors: previous fetal loss, presence of support provider, and strong attachment to mother. Education level and history of previous low birth weight baby come in the second level of significant in this study. Additionally, increased gravidity contributed to a decreased MFA level. Recommendation: Early and effective interventions should be applied for the expectant mother to achieve a physically and psychologically wellbeing during pregnancy to reach best optimize maternal and fetal health .