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McKenzie M, Humphreys C, Tarzia L. Mothering in the Aftermath of Reproductive Coercion and Abuse. Violence Against Women 2024:10778012241263102. [PMID: 39043121 DOI: 10.1177/10778012241263102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
A partner's reproductive coercion and abuse (RCA) can significantly undermine women's physical health and psychological wellbeing. Yet little research has explored how RCA affects experiences of mothering and relationships with children. Based on an analysis of interviews with 30 Australian mothers, we found that RCA affected mothering in complex ways. Many struggled with feeling detached, resentful, and guilty toward their children, while some found mothering an emotionally and morally restorative experience after the RCA. All felt compelled to conceal their abuse from their children and others. The findings have implications for how healthcare practitioners can support mothers in the aftermath of RCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandy McKenzie
- Department of General Practice & Primary Care, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Cathy Humphreys
- Department of Social Work, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Laura Tarzia
- Department of General Practice & Primary Care, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Family Violence Prevention, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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2
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Liu CH, Koire A, Ma C, Mittal L, Roffman JL, Erdei C. Prenatal mental health and emotional experiences during the pandemic: associations with infant neurodevelopment screening results. Pediatr Res 2024; 96:237-244. [PMID: 38431665 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03100-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study determined whether parental mental health and emotional experiences during the prenatal period were linked to infant developmental outcomes through the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ-3) at 8-10 months. METHODS Participants included 133 individuals who were living in the US and were pregnant or had given birth within 6 months prior to enrollment. Respondents were majority White with high education and income levels. Online surveys were administered from May 2020 to September 2021; follow-up surveys were administered from November 2020 to August 2022. RESULTS Parent generalized anxiety symptoms were positively associated with infant communication (β = 0.34, 95% CI [0.15, 1.76], p < 0.05), while parent-fetal bonding was positively associated with infant communication (β = 0.20, 95% CI [0.05, 0.76], p < 0.05) and personal-social performance (β = 0.20, 95% CI [0.04, 0.74], p < 0.05). COVID-19-related worry was negatively associated with infant communication (β = -0.30, 95% CI [-0.75, -0.12], p < 0.05) and fine motor performance (β = -0.25, 95% CI [-0.66, -0.03], p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Parent mental health and emotional experiences may contribute to infant developmental outcomes in high risk conditions such as a pandemic. IMPACT STATEMENT Maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection has been evaluated in relation to child outcomes, however, parent psychosocial experiences should not be overlooked when considering pandemic risks to child development. Specific prenatal mental health and pandemic-related emotional experiences are associated with infant developmental performance, as assessed by the Ages and Stages. Questionnaire (ASQ-3) at 8 to 10 months old. Findings indicate that parental prenatal anxiety and emotional experiences from the pandemic should be assessed when evaluating child developmental delays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy H Liu
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, 221 Longwood Ave., BLI 341, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis St., Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St., Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Amanda Koire
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis St., Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St., Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Candice Ma
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, 221 Longwood Ave., BLI 341, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Leena Mittal
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis St., Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St., Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Joshua L Roffman
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St., Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St., Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Carmina Erdei
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, 221 Longwood Ave., BLI 341, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St., Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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Maghalian M, Nikanfar R, Nabighadim M, Mirghafourvand M. Comparison of maternal-fetal attachment, anxiety, depression, and prevalence of intimate partner violence in Iranian women with intended and unintended pregnancy: a cross-sectional study. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:345. [PMID: 38867327 PMCID: PMC11170898 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01847-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unintended pregnancies and intimate partner violence can adversely affect women, infants, and their psychological well-being. The study aimed to compare depression, anxiety, maternal-fetal attachment, and the prevalence of intimate partner violence between women with and without unintended pregnancies in Tabriz, Iran. The study sought to address the lack of research on this topic in the Iranian context. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted on 486 pregnant women attending health centers in Tabriz City between 2022 and 2023. A cluster sampling method was utilized, and data were gathered through the administration of socio-demographic, Maternal Fetal Attachment, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression, World Health Organization Domestic Violence, and Pregnancy Anxiety instruments. A general linear model (GLM), controlling for potential confounding variables, was used to compare anxiety, depression, and maternal-fetal attachment between the two groups. Multivariable logistic regression analysis, also controlling for potential confounding variables, was employed to compare the prevalence of domestic violence between the two groups. RESULTS The results of the adjusted GLM indicated that women with unintended pregnancies had significantly lower maternal-fetal attachment (Adjusted mean difference (AMD):-9.82, 95% CI:-12.4 to -7.15 ; p < 0.001)), higher levels of depression (AMD: 2.89; CI: 1.92 to 3.86 ; p < 0.001), and higher levels of anxiety (MD: 5.65; 95% CI: 3.84 to 7.45; p < 0.001) compared to women with intended pregnancies. During pregnancy, 40% of women with unintended pregnancies and 19.2% of women with intended pregnancies reported experiencing at least one form of physical, sexual, or emotional violence. The results of the adjusted multivariable logistic regression revealed that women with unintended pregnancies had a significantly higher odds of experiencing emotional violence (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.94; 95% CI: 1.64 to 5.26; p < 0.001), sexual violence, (aOR: 2.25; 95% CI: 1.32 to 3.85; p = 0.004), and physical violence (aOR: 2.38; 95% CI: 1.50 to 3.77; p < 0.001) compared to women with intended pregnancies. CONCLUSIONS The study found that women with unintended pregnancies had lower levels of maternal-fetal attachment, higher levels of anxiety and depression, and a high prevalence of intimate partner violence, including physical, sexual, and emotional violence, compared to women with intended pregnancies. These results emphasize the importance of implementing policies aimed at reducing unintended pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Maghalian
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Mahsan Nabighadim
- Medical School, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Mojgan Mirghafourvand
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Wenze SJ, Mikula CM, Battle CL. Two babies, two bonds: Frequency and correlates of differential maternal-infant bonding in mothers of twins. Infant Ment Health J 2024; 45:286-300. [PMID: 38403982 DOI: 10.1002/imhj.22108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
We assessed prevalence and correlates of differential maternal-infant bonding (i.e., experiencing a stronger bond with one baby vs. the other) in mothers of twins, focusing on aspects of maternal mental health, well-being, and pregnancy/birth that have been previously linked with maternal-infant bonding. Participants (N = 108 American women, 88.89% White, 82.41% non-Hispanic, aged 18-45, who gave birth to twins in the past 6-24 weeks) were recruited from postpartum support websites. Participants completed a Qualtrics survey assessing pregnancy/birth history, symptoms of depression and anxiety, sleep, stress, romantic relationship satisfaction, and postpartum bonding. Twenty-six participants (24.07%) reported a bonding discrepancy. These participants endorsed higher symptoms of depression and anxiety, lower relationship satisfaction, lower average postpartum bonding, higher general and parenting stress, and longer pregnancy (all ps > .05). Greater degree of bonding discrepancy correlated with more depression, higher parenting stress, longer pregnancy, and lower relationship satisfaction (all ps > .05). Mothers of twins may benefit from postpartum mental health support, stress management strategies, and interventions to improve bonding. Future work should assess the role of breastfeeding difficulties, delivery method, birth-related trauma, infant regulatory capacity, and temperament. Longitudinal studies will help test cause and effect and potential long-term repercussions of maternal-infant bonding discrepancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan J Wenze
- Department of Psychology, Lafayette College, Easton, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Cynthia M Mikula
- Department of Psychology, Lafayette College, Easton, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Cynthia L Battle
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Butler Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Women and Infants' Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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5
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Nakić Radoš S, Hairston I, Handelzalts JE. The concept analysis of parent-infant bonding during pregnancy and infancy: a systematic review and meta-synthesis. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2024; 42:142-165. [PMID: 36588501 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2022.2162487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the emerging body of literature on mother-to-infant bonding and the associated variables, there are various definitions of bonding construct. Also, there is a lack of a comprehensive conceptual framework of antecedents and consequences of bonding that would guide empirical work. OBJECTIVE Aim of the study was to provide a systematic review and synthesis of concept analysis studies on maternal-foetal, mother-infant, or father-infant bonding. METHOD A systematic search was performed in PubMed, EBSCOHost (including PsycINFO), ProQuest, and CINAHL. In addition, a hand search was conducted. Papers were eligible for inclusion if they conducted concept analyses on mother or father to foetus/infant bonding. A qualitative meta-synthesis was applied to synthesise the findings. RESULTS Eight papers on concept analyses were eligible for inclusion. In meta-synthesis, six aspects of parent-to-(unborn) child bonding emerged, including direction, domain, process, timing, endurance, and parental gender. Defining attributes are (i) a close relationship, (ii) filled with positive parental affection, (iii) manifested during pregnancy as monitoring foetal development and behaviour and after childbirth in proximity and interaction. Antecedents, affecting factors, and consequences of the parent-child bonding have been summarised. CONCLUSION Parent-infant bonding refers to an emotional, behavioural, cognitive, and neurobiological tie of the parent to the (unborn) child, as a process from intention to have a child throughout infancy. This is a parental-driven process which can continue to evolve throughout child's and parent's life, characterised as enduring, committed, and engaged. Based on meta-synthesis, a conceptual structure of parent-infant bonding has been provided, which needs further empirical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Nakić Radoš
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ilana Hairston
- Tel-Hai Academic College, Tel-Hai, Israel
- The Institute of Information Processing and Decision Making (IIPDM), Haifa University, Haifa, Israel
| | - Jonathan Eliyahu Handelzalts
- School of Behavioral Sciences, The Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yafo, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Demir E, Öz S, Aral N, Gürsoy F. A Reliability Generalization Meta-Analysis of the Mother-To-Infant Bonding Scale. Psychol Rep 2024; 127:447-464. [PMID: 35815798 DOI: 10.1177/00332941221114413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The Mother-to-Infant Bonding Scale (MIBS) is among the most popular measurement tools to evaluate caregiver-infant attachment. We carried out a meta-analysis study to explore the generalizability of the reliability coefficients for the MIBS in different studies. The literature review yielded a total of 702 studies investigating caregiver-infant attachment. After removing duplicate studies, we also excluded compilations, meta-analyses, qualitative studies, those using different measurement tools, studies published in a language other than English, citations, and those whose full texts could not be accessed. Eventually, we considered a total of 26 studies with 33 Cronbach's alpha coefficients that satisfied the inclusion criteria. We normalized the alpha coefficients using Bonett's transformation, and the analyses were performed using a 95% confidence interval. The findings revealed a Cronbach's alpha (n = 33) coefficient of 0.73 (CI = 0.68-0.77); hence, the present reliability generalization study provides evidence that the reliability scores produced after measurements with the MIBS in previous studies are acceptable across samples. Overall, further studies may reliably utilize the MIBS to evaluate mother-infant attachment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emin Demir
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Child Development, Tarsus University, Tarsus, Turkey
| | - Sena Öz
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Child Development, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Neriman Aral
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Child Development, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Figen Gürsoy
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Child Development, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
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Schonewille NN, Jonkman NH, van Kempen AAMW, van Pampus MG, van den Heuvel OA, Broekman BFP. Pregnancy intention in relation to maternal and neonatal outcomes in women with versus without psychiatric diagnoses. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2024; 149:110-123. [PMID: 37933529 DOI: 10.1111/acps.13625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have identified adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes for women with psychiatric disorders. Additionally, psychiatric disorders may pose an increased risk for unintended pregnancies (UPs) which in turn may also impact negatively on outcomes. The present study aims to compare the incidence of UPs in women with versus without current/past psychiatric diagnoses and investigates whether psychiatric history modifies the relation between delivery outcomes in women with and without UPs. METHODS A retrospective cohort was compiled of women who gave birth in a large hospital in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Women ≥18 years old with singleton pregnancies and birth registrations in the electronic patient file during January 1, 2015 to March 1, 2020 were included. Patient characteristics (including pregnancy intention and psychiatric history), maternal (gestational diabetes, mode of delivery) and neonatal outcomes (e.g., gestational age [GA], birthweight and Apgar scores) were registered by health care providers in hospital charts. Incidence of UPs was compared between women with versus without current/past psychiatric diagnoses. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were compared between women with versus without UPs with linear or logistic regression models adjusted for relevant confounders with an interaction term for UP with current/past psychiatric diagnoses. RESULTS We included 1219 women with and 1093 women without current/past psychiatric diagnoses. Current/past psychiatric diagnoses were significantly associated with UPs after adjustment for confounders (39.0% vs. 29.6%, OR 1.56, CI 1.23-2.00, p < 0.001). In sub-analyses, women with depressive (OR 1.67, CI 1.24-2.26, p = 0.001), personality (OR 2.64, CI 1.38-5.11, p = 0.004) and substance-related and addictive disorders (OR 4.29, CI 1.90-10.03, p = 0.001) had higher odds of UPs compared to women without current/past psychiatric diagnoses. Amongst women with UPs, current/past psychiatric diagnoses did not modify maternal or neonatal outcomes, except for GA at delivery as women with both UPs and current/past psychiatric diagnosis had a 2.21-day higher mean GA at delivery than women in the reference group (p-value interaction = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Current/past psychiatric diagnoses are associated with a higher odd of UPs. In our sample, maternal and neonatal outcomes were comparable for women with and without UPs and these results were similar for women with and without current/past psychiatric diagnoses, except for GA at delivery. Although our study is limited by several factors, we found that women with current/past psychiatric diagnoses, irrespective of pregnancy planning status, do not have more adverse maternal or pregnancy outcomes. Increased efforts are needed to ensure that psychoeducation and conversations about pregnancy planning and UPs are available for women with current/past psychiatric diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noralie N Schonewille
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, OLVG, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Mental Health Program, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nini H Jonkman
- Department of Research and Epidemiology, OLVG, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Maria G van Pampus
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, OLVG, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Odile A van den Heuvel
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Anatomy & Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Compulsivity, Impulsivity & Attention Program, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Birit F P Broekman
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, OLVG, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Mental Health Program, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Ciciolla L, Shreffler KM, Quigley AN, Price JR, Gold KP. The Protective Role of Maternal-Fetal Bonding for Postpartum Bonding Following a NICU Admission. Matern Child Health J 2024; 28:11-18. [PMID: 38165585 PMCID: PMC11195440 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-023-03873-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Admission of a newborn to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) can be a highly stressful event that affects maternal psychological well-being and disrupts the early maternal-infant bonding relationship. Determining factors that promote maternal-infant bonding among those with a NICU admission is essential for the development of effective interventions. METHODS Using a longitudinal clinic-based sample of diverse and low-income pregnant women, we examined whether maternal-fetal bonding measured during the second trimester moderated the association between NICU admission and postpartum bonding measured at six months post birth, controlling for demographic characteristics. RESULTS Approximately 18% of the sample experienced a NICU admission at birth. NICU admission was associated with lower postpartum bonding (b = -8.74; p < .001, Model 1), whereas maternal-fetal bonding was associated with higher bonding reported at six months postpartum (b = 3.74, p < .001, Model 2). Results of the interaction revealed that women who reported higher maternal-fetal bonding reported higher postnatal bonding regardless of NICU admission status. DISCUSSION Because maternal-fetal bonding can be enhanced through intervention, it is a promising target for reducing the risks of NICU admission for the early maternal-infant relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Ciciolla
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Karina M Shreffler
- Fran and Earl Ziegler College of Nursing, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 1100 N. Stonewall Ave., Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA.
| | - Ashley N Quigley
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Jameca R Price
- School of Community Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Karen P Gold
- School of Community Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Tulsa, OK, USA
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Ghaemmaghami P, Sarbakhsh F, Janghorban R, Bahrami R. Preconception care, prenatal care, and postpartum bonding in women with substance use. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20528. [PMID: 37822612 PMCID: PMC10562804 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The status of care in the preconception and pregnancy periods in women who use substances can have an impact on maternal and neonatal health. This study aimed to assess the provision of preconception care, prenatal care, and postnatal mother-to-child bonding among pregnant women who use substances. Methods An ambidirectional cohort study was conducted, involving 69 pregnant women who reported substance use and had it confirmed using a ten-parameter panel kit (M10T) manufactured by Hannan Teb Pars Company. These women were selected from a referral maternity hospital between January and December 2020, using a convenience sampling method. Sociodemographic information, obstetric and medical history, and information about preconception and prenatal care were collected. All maternal and neonatal outcomes were recorded from the time of admission to the time of discharge for both the mothers and their neonates. Neonatal abstinence syndrome and mother-to-child bonding were assessed using modified Finnegan's neonatal abstinence tool and a postpartum bonding questionnaire, respectively. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential tests using SPSS software version 22. Result The mean age of the women was 32.8 ± 5.7 years. The mean duration of substance use was 5.1 ± 3.5 years. 48% of the pregnancies were reported as unwanted. A total of 94.2% and 50.7% of pregnant women did not receive preconception care and prenatal care, respectively. There was no association between pregnancy wantedness and receiving preconception care (P = 0.287), but a significant association was observed for prenatal care (P < 0.001). 31% of the mothers experienced a mother-to-child bonding disorder, with 75% of those who had unwanted pregnancies reporting such a disorder. Conclusion The findings of this study indicate that the majority of pregnant women who use substances did not receive preconception care, and prenatal care was inadequate with fewer visits than recommended. One-third of the pregnant women who use substances experienced a mother-to-child bonding disorder. It was also observed that women with unwanted pregnancies had poorer perinatal care and mother-to-child bonding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parvin Ghaemmaghami
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sarbakhsh
- Student Research Committee, Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Roksana Janghorban
- Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Maternal-Fetal Medicine Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Reza Bahrami
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Neonatal Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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10
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Schaal NK, Marca-Ghaemmaghami PL, Märthesheimer S, Hepp P, Preis H, Mahaffey B, Lobel M, Castro RA. Associations of stress, anxiety, and partner satisfaction with maternal-fetal attachment in women pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic: an online study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:483. [PMID: 37391704 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-05804-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has led to exceptional stress in pregnant women. The aim of the present study was to investigate associations of maternal stress (pandemic-related and -unrelated), anxiety, and relationship satisfaction experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic with prenatal mother-infant attachment. METHODS An online study was conducted evaluating pandemic-related stress, pregnancy-specific stress (unrelated to the pandemic), anxiety, partnership satisfaction, and maternal-fetal attachment in German-speaking women during the second COVID-19 lockdown between January and March 2021. In total, 431 pregnant women (349 lived in Germany and 82 in Switzerland) filled in the questionnaires and gave information on demographic and pregnancy-related variables (i.e. age, gestational age, parity). Bivariate correlations were calculated in order to investigate associations between the different variables and additionally, a hierarchical regression model was conducted in order to evaluate the influence of the independent variables on prenatal attachment. RESULTS The hierarchical regression analysis revealed that after controlling for age, gestational age, and parity higher pandemic-related stress, namely stress associated with feeling unprepared for birth, higher partnership satisfaction as well as higher positive appraisal (considered as a way of coping with pandemic-related stress) was associated with stronger maternal-fetal attachment, whereas associations of anxiety and other forms of stress were non-significant. CONCLUSIONS The study highlights interesting associations between maternal pandemic-related preparedness stress and positive appraisal of the pregnancy as well as partnership satisfaction and prenatal attachment in women pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora K Schaal
- Institut für Experimentelle Psychologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Pearl La Marca-Ghaemmaghami
- Psychology Counselling and Research Institute for Sexuality, Marriage, and Family, International Academy for Human Sciences and Culture, Walenstadt, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Märthesheimer
- Institut für Experimentelle Psychologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Philip Hepp
- Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, KJF Klinik Josefinum gGmbH, Augsburg, Germany
- Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, HELIOS University Hospital Wuppertal, University Witten/Herdecke, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Heidi Preis
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Brittain Mahaffey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Marci Lobel
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Rita Amiel Castro
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Stoodley C, McKellar L, Ziaian T, Steen M, Fereday J, Gwilt I. The role of midwives in supporting the development of the mother-infant relationship: a scoping review. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:71. [PMID: 36918968 PMCID: PMC10015829 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01092-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mother-infant relationship is complex and dynamic, informing the psychological development of the infant through bonding and attachment. Positive early interactions influence the quality of this relationship. Midwives are well placed to support the developing relationship between the mother and baby, yet there has been limited research exploring the role of the midwife in this context. AIM To explore interventions that have been provided by the midwife which support the development of the maternal-fetal or mother-infant relationship amongst a low-risk population from pregnancy, and up to six weeks postnatal. The review also sought to understand the types of interventions developed, format and delivery, outcomes measured and if cultural considerations had been incorporated. METHODS A scoping review of the research literature was undertaken using the Joanna Briggs Institute framework. Five online databases were searched for relevant articles published in English from 2000 to 2021. FINDINGS Sixteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Three themes emerged: (1) viewing the fetus as separate from the mother, (2) focused activities on the maternal-infant relationship and (3) targeted educational interventions. DISCUSSION Providing focused activities and targeted education during the pre and postnatal periods support the development of the mother-infant relationship. Significantly, there was insufficient research that considered the influence of culture in supporting the mother-infant relationship. CONCLUSION Further research is required to develop interventions that include a diverse sample to ensure culturally appropriate activities can be integrated into care during pregnancy and/or the postnatal period provided by midwives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathy Stoodley
- University of South Australia, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Lois McKellar
- School of Health and Social Care, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Tahereh Ziaian
- University of South Australia, South Australia, Australia
| | - Mary Steen
- University of Northumbria, Newcastle, England
| | | | - Ian Gwilt
- University of South Australia, South Australia, Australia
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12
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Jespersen JE, Quigley AN, Shreffler KM. Pregnancy intendedness and happiness as predictors of maternal-foetal bonding: evidence for mediation. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2023:1-11. [PMID: 36912502 PMCID: PMC10497714 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2023.2188080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prior research has identified associations between pregnancy intendedness and maternal-foetal bonding, but no studies have examined the potential mediation of pregnancy happiness on the development of the maternal-infant relationship. METHODS In 2017-2018, a clinic-based pregnancy cohort of 177 low-income and racially diverse women in a South-Central U.S. state participated in a study examining their pregnancy intentions, attitudes and behaviours. Pregnancy intentions and happiness and demographic characteristics were measured during the first trimester assessment, and maternal-foetal bonding was measured with the Prenatal Attachment Inventory (PAI) during the second trimester. Structural equation modelling was used to examine the associations between intendedness, happiness and bonding. RESULTS Findings indicate positive associations between intended pregnancies and pregnancy happiness and pregnancy happiness to bonding. The direct effect from intended pregnancy to maternal-foetal bonding was not significant, providing evidence for full mediation. We did not find any associations between pregnancies that were unintended or ambivalent with pregnancy happiness or maternal-foetal bonding. CONCLUSIONS Pregnancy happiness provides one potential explanation for the association between intended pregnancies and maternal-foetal bonding. These findings have implications for research and practice, as inquiring about mothers' pregnancy attitudes (e.g. how happy they are about their pregnancy) may be more important for maternal psychological health outcomes, such as the maternal-child relationship, than whether or not their pregnancies were intended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens E. Jespersen
- National Center for Wellness & Recovery, Oklahoma State University-Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Ashley N. Quigley
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Karina M. Shreffler
- Department of Child and Family Health Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73117
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13
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McNamara J, Risi A, Bird AL, Townsend ML, Herbert JS. The role of pregnancy acceptability in maternal mental health and bonding during pregnancy. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:267. [PMID: 35351015 PMCID: PMC8966290 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04558-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnancy is an important time for women's mental health and marks the foundations of the emerging bond between mother and baby. This study aimed to investigate the role of pregnancy acceptability and intendedness in maternal mental health and bonding during pregnancy. METHODS Data were collected from a community sample of 116 Australian pregnant women (M = 29.54, SD = 5.31) through a series of self-report questionnaires pertaining to mental health and antenatal bonding. RESULTS Lower pregnancy acceptability was correlated with higher depression, anxiety and total distress, lower physical and environmental quality of life and lower antenatal bonding. Women who reported their pregnancy was intended reported higher physical quality of life than those who reported their pregnancy was unintended. The relationship between total distress and antenatal bonding was moderated by women's degree of pregnancy acceptability (low versus high). For women with low acceptability, higher distress was associated with lower bonding, but there was no such association for women with high pregnancy acceptability. The moderation model examining associations between distress and pregnancy acceptability explained 15% of the variance in antenatal bonding scores. CONCLUSION Consideration of women's appraisal of their pregnancy acceptability may provide a valuable framework for identifying individuals who may be at risk for mental health and bonding difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine McNamara
- School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.,Early Start, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Alixandra Risi
- School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.,Early Start, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Amy L Bird
- School of Psychology, University of Waikato, Hamilton, Waikato, 3240, New Zealand
| | - Michelle L Townsend
- School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Jane S Herbert
- School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia. .,Early Start, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.
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14
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Savenysheva S, Anikina V, Blokh M. Translation and Adaptation of the Inventory «Maternal Antenatal Attachment Scale» (MAAS). КОНСУЛЬТАТИВНАЯ ПСИХОЛОГИЯ И ПСИХОТЕРАПИЯ 2022. [DOI: 10.17759/cpp.2022300306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Introduction. The article presents the results of adaptation and validation of the Russian-language version of the Maternal antenatal attachment scale (MAAS) by J. Condon «Maternal prenatal attachment». This scale is aimed at studying the relationship of a mother to a child during pregnancy (quality of attachment, attachment behavior). Method. The study sample consisted of 320 pregnant women aged 18—44 years (average age — 27.1 years), gestational age — from 8 to 39 weeks (average 26.8 weeks). Results and conclusions. The Russian-language version of the scale was checked for internal consistency (Cronbach’s α coefficient — 0.83). Testing of constructive validity using Pregnant women attitude test, Relationship color test and Family drawing showed a close correlation with indicators of attitude towards the child. In addition to the original version of the method processing, a second version of the method processing was proposed — in accordance with the structure of prenatal attachment (cognitive, emotional and behavioral components).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - M.E. Blokh
- Saint Petersburg State University, psychotherapist
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15
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Tokuda N, Kobayashi Y, Tanaka H, Sawai H, Shibahara H, Takeshima Y, Shima M. Feelings about pregnancy and mother-infant bonding as predictors of persistent psychological distress in the perinatal period: The Japan Environment and Children's Study. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 140:132-140. [PMID: 34116439 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.05.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Feelings about pregnancy and mother-infant bonding are associated with maternal mental health before and after childbirth. The current study examined factors associated with persistent distress at 12 months after childbirth among mothers with psychological distress in the first trimester, using data from the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS). Feelings about pregnancy were assessed using a questionnaire in the first trimester, and maternal mental health was assessed using the Kessler 6 (K6) in the first trimester and at 12 months after childbirth. In addition, mother-infant bonding was assessed using the Mother-to-Infant Bonding Scale Japanese version (MIBS-J) at 12 months after childbirth, and 5 items from the MIBS-J at one and six months after childbirth. Among the 97,415 mothers registered in the JECS, 24,324 mothers with psychological distress (K6 ≥ 5) in the first trimester were included in this analysis. The relationships between persistence of psychological distress at 12 months after childbirth with feelings about pregnancy and mother-infant bonding were analyzed. Both maternal negative feelings about pregnancy in the first trimester and mother-infant bonding after childbirth were significantly associated with persistent psychological distress at 12 months after childbirth (β = 0.02, p = 0.001 and β = 0.35, p < 0.001, respectively). The indirect effect of feelings about pregnancy on persistent distress through mother-infant bonding was also observed (β = 0.06, p < 0.001). These findings indicate that mother-infant bonding after childbirth may be important for improving the mental health of mothers with prenatal psychological distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narumi Tokuda
- Hyogo Regional Center for the Japan Environment and Children's Study, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan; Department of Public Health, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Kobayashi
- Hyogo Regional Center for the Japan Environment and Children's Study, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Hideaki Sawai
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Shibahara
- Hyogo Regional Center for the Japan Environment and Children's Study, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Takeshima
- Hyogo Regional Center for the Japan Environment and Children's Study, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan; Department of Pediatrics, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Masayuki Shima
- Hyogo Regional Center for the Japan Environment and Children's Study, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan; Department of Public Health, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan.
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