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.
Materials & Methods: 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.
Results: 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).
Conclusion: 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.