Effect of Fetal Movement Counting on Prenatal Attachment and Maternal Worries among Primigravidae

Fetal movement counting is quantification of fetal movements as perceived by the mother that interprets the general condition of the fetus in the womb. This method may be used for continuous monitoring and evaluation of the fetal health by the mother as it is inexpensive, non invasive, easy and simple in nature. This study aims at identifying the effect of fetal movement counting on maternal-fetal attachment and maternal worries.

Objectives

• Evaluate the effect of foetal movement counting on prenatal attachment and maternal worries among primi gravidae mothers
• Identify the relationship between foetal movement counting compliance, prenatal bonding and maternal worries among the primi gravidae mothers

Methodology

The research design adopted for this study was two group pretest-posttest experimental design.100 primigravidae of 32-36 weeks, attending antenatal outpatient department at Sri Ramachandra Hospital, who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were samples. The outcome measures were prenatal attachment and maternal worries. Tools consist of demographic, clinical and social variables; prenatal attachment inventory and Cambridge worry scale.

Results

A significant level of improvement in prenatal attachment was seen in the study group mothers. A highly significant statistical difference in PAI between the groups at p<.001 was identified. Maternal worries reduced among mothers in the study group the independent t value between the group shows a statistical significance at the level of p<.001.Weak negative correlation was seen between PAI and CWS. Correlation between PAI and fetal movement counting performance showed a weak positive correlation.

Conclusion

Maternal-fetal attachment is an inimitable bonding that is quite different from any other form of succeeding affection. Prenatal attachment is an ideal method to encourage parenting process. Through this study, fetal movement counting is proved to be the paramount measure to improve maternal fetal attachment and reduce maternal worries.