A cross-sectional study of maternal-fetal attachment and perceived stress at the first antenatal visit

Maternal-fetal attachment (MFA) psychologically is well described. Suboptimal attachment may have negative consequences particularly if it is associated with unhealthy maternal behaviour that may potentially increase the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. The perception of stress or anxiety is also associated with potential adverse outcomes including preterm birth.

This cross-sectional study examined MFA and perceived stress at the time of the first ultrasound examination in early pregnancy.

Convenience sampling was used to recruit women after they presented to the Ultrasound Department for a routine dating ultrasound at their first antenatal visit. Informed consent was obtained and clinical and sociodemographic details were recorded. Women were invited to complete validated Cranley MFA and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) questionnaires.

Of the 90 women recruited, 80 completed the questionnaires successfully. No association was found between the MFA score and maternal age, parity, education, marital status, previous pregnancy loss or smoking behaviour. An unplanned pregnancy was associated with a lower mean MFA score (p < 0.01) and a higher mean PSS score (p < 0.005). These relationships persisted in a multiple regression analysis controlling for maternal age and parity.

In early pregnancy, an unplanned pregnancy is associated with a lower MFA and higher PSS score. Additional research is required to assess if this persists as pregnancy advances.

Maternal-Fetal Attachment (MFA), Maternal-Fetal Attachment Scale (MFAS), Perceived stress scale (PSS), Maternal Antenatal Attachment Scale (MAAS), Standard Deviation (SD), Central Statistics Office (CSO), Body Mass Index (BMI), Relative Risk (RR).