Effect of fetal movement, ultrasound scans, and amniocentesis on maternal-fetal attachment

Abstract

The effects of fetal movement, ultrasound scans, and amniocentesis on maternal-fetal attachment and perception of fetal development in normal pregnancy were examined in 91 women during the second trimester. Women who reported feeling fetal movement early in pregnancy had higher maternal-fetal attachment scores and higher perception of fetal development scores. Ultrasound scans had no effect on either variable. Women who had genetic amniocentesis had lower attachment scores before the procedure, but one month later the attachment scores were not significantly different from those of other women. Both maternal-fetal attachment and perceptions of fetal development increased significantly from 16 to 20 weeks of gestation. There was a small but significant correlation between attachment scores and perception of fetal development.