The effect of Training on Maternal-fetal Attachment (MfA) in nulliparous Women: A Randomized clinical Trial

Self-esteem and self-efficacy are the main effective factors on proper functioning sense of responsibility and roles of motherhood. Using the promotion methods of self-esteem and self-efficacy may improve pregnancy outcomes. The aim of this study was to detect the effect of counting fetal movements on self-esteem and self-efficacy of nulliparous women.
In a randomized controlled trial study 200 nulliparous women participated, selected by convenience sampling, and were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. In the first group, the women counted the fetal movements during 28 to 37 weeks of gestation and the second group received the standard antenatal care. The self-esteem and self-efficacy of mothers were assessed and compared in 28 and 37 week in the two groups. Data were analyzed with SPSS 16 and P There was not a significant difference in the mean scores of self-esteem in 28 weeks of gestation between the two groups, but the difference was significant in 37 weeks of gestation (23.31 ± 4.08 in the experimental group and 21.29 ± 4.60 in the control group, P The women who counted the fetal movements during 28 to 37 weeks of gestation reported a better self-esteem and self-efficacy than the control group. Using this simple and useful method for improving self-esteem and self-efficacy of mothers during pregnancy is suggested to all health care providers.