Three‐dimensional ultrasound (3DUS) does not enhance maternal bonding during pregnancy

Abstract

Purpose: To assess the impact of 3DUS on maternal–fetal bonding during pregnancy.Methods: A total of 36 primi gravidae were randomized to either 3DUS or conventional two‐dimensional ultrasound (2DUS) at 12 or 24 weeks of gestation. Prior to imaging all subjects were given a structured clinical interview at 12 weeks of gestation. The following instruments were also applied: Parent Bonding Instrument, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Maternal Social Support Index, State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and the Maternal Fetal Attachment Scales (MFA). After their scan, all subjects received a ‘best picture’ image of their fetus and a short video tape of their study. The BDI STAI and MFA were re‐administered to all subjects during the second and third trimesters.Results: A total of 20 subjects underwent 3DUS (10 at 12 weeks, and 10 at 24 weeks) and 16 underwent 2DUS (7 at 12 weeks, and 9 at 24 weeks). No serious psychological disorders were identified at the initial interview. Maternal–fetal bonding, as assessed by the various instruments increased steadily throughout pregnancy in all subjects with a marked increase following quickening. No significant differences (P < 0.001) in objective measures of maternal–fetal bonding were identified between the 3D and 2D groups regardless of gestational age at imaging.Conclusion: The 3DUS does not appear to increase maternal–fetal bonding during the course of normal primi gravid pregnancy when compared to 2DUS.