THE EFFECT OF FETAL MOVEMENT COUNTING ON THE MATERNAL-FETAL ATTACHMENT IN PRIMIPAROUS WOMEN REFERRED TO THE SOCIAL SECURITY THERAPEUTIC CENTERS OF URMIA IN 2017

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of fetal movement counting on the maternal-fetal attachment in primiparous women.

This semi-experimental study was conducted on 110 pregnant women which were selected by available sampling from primigravid pregnant women referred to the therapeutic centers of social security of Urmia in 2017: The demographic information, GHQ28 questionnaire, and Cranley's MFAS were used for data collection. Before the intervention, the demographic information and the Cranley's questionnaires were completed for both groups. After training the fetal movement counting to the intervention group, they all received fetal movement counting form and a ribbon. They were asked to count and record fetal movements every day for two weeks and tie the ribbon. The control group only received the routine care. The intervention group delivered the form and ribbon after two weeks. Both groups re-completed MFA questionnaire. The mean scores of MFA before and after intervention were compared between the two groups. Data were analyzed by SPSS 16.

The mean score for MFA before the intervention was 3/93 ± 0.48 and 3/87 ±0.55 in intervention and control groups, respectively. However, after the intervention, the mean score was 4/06±0.45 and 3/84±0.54 and they were statistically significant (p=0.030).

Counting fetal movements by the mother during pregnancy increases maternal attachment to the fetus. This promotes the mental health, social maternal health, and fetal health.