Effectiveness of a prenatal behavior change communication intervention on maternal-fetal bonding: A randomized controlled trial in a tertiary care setting.

PROBLEM: Maternal-fetal attachment (MFA) plays a critical role in determining maternal health and influencing child developmental outcomes. However, structured behavioral interventions designed to enhance MFA are seldom included in antenatal care practices.

BACKGROUND

MFA forms the foundation of the maternal-child bond. This early relationship is critical for maternal mental health and serves as a precursor to the child's socio-emotional and behavioral development.

AIM: This study aimed to determine whether a behavioral communication intervention could enhance maternal-fetal attachment.

METHODS

A total of 450 expectant mothers were recruited and randomly assigned to two test groups and one control group in a 3-arm trial (1:1:1). The Maternal-Fetal Attachment Scale (MFAS) and Prenatal Attachment Inventory (PAI) were used to measure MFA at baseline and post-intervention.

RESULTS

MFA scores increased across groups over time. Test Group 2, which received additional interactive supportive talk therapy, demonstrated a statistically significant enhancement in MFA measured by the PAI (p < 0.001) versus the control group. However, MFAS score changes for Test Group 2 were not significant (p = 0.064). Test Group 1 showed no significant differences on either scale compared to the control group.

DISCUSSION: MFA showed a steady increase throughout pregnancy in the intervention groups, especially in those receiving a blend of psychological and cognitive-behavioral support, demonstrating notably greater improvements beyond natural progression.

CONCLUSION

This study emphasizes the benefits of combining supportive talk therapy and behavioral communication therapy to enhance mother-fetal attachment. Strengthening MFA may be crucial for fostering optimal psychological, behavioral, and cognitive development in offspring.