Variance of Maternal-Fetal Attachment in Pregnant Women Based on Personality Traits

Maternal-fetal attachment (MFA) is the first relationship between a mother and her child, which generally begins during pregnancy. The maternal psychological state affects fetal growth and health. MFA is associated with the mental and psychological condition in pregnant women.

The aim of this study was the estimation of the variance of MFA, according to the personality traits in pregnancy.

Using a descriptive correlational study design, we studied pregnant women who were more than 24 weeks pregnant and were referring to the obstetric ward of the Kowsar Hospital, Shiraz, Iran, during May to June 2015. The sample size was estimated to be 200 women by Morgan’s table. A total of 29 participants were removed due to incomplete questionnaires, and 171 participants were selected. Data collection tools included demographic obstetric questionnaires, including obstetric information and demographic data, Cranly’s MFA scale, and NEO personality scale. Data were analyzed by the Pearson correlation coefficient and multiple regression, by using SPSS version 16.

Findings from data analysis demonstrated a significant correlation between components of NEO personality with maternal-fetal attachment. Extroversion index (P < 0.001, R = -0.51) had the most significant relationship with MFA. Almost 33% of the variance in maternal-fetal attachment was predicted by personality trait. The extraversion (β = 0.48, P < 0.001) is the highest level of prediction. Neuroticism (β = 0.175), openness to experience (β = 0.131) and conscientiousness (β = 0.237), predicted the maternal-fetal attachment positively. Agreeableness (β = -0.026) was not predicted in the maternal-fetal attachment. In demographic variables, they were not predicted of MFA. There was a significant correlation between parity and maternal-fetal attachment (R = 0.190, P = 0.013).

Personality traits (except agreeableness) predict MFA for pregnant women. In addition, the psychological health of the mother and baby can be improved by identifying mothers based on personality traits, and therefore, by promoting behavioral attachment, health care providers should identify mothers who need additional psychological support during their pregnancy.