Relation between Maternal-Fetal Attachment and Gestational Age and Parental Memories

Background: Attachment is defined as the emotional bond established between the infant and his/her mother or caregiver. It begins to form during pregnancy and will influence the human being, in the relationship with his/her parents and peers, and in the future role as mother/father. Objectives: To understand the relation between gestational age and maternal-fetal attachment, as well as to analyze the relation between the memories of parental practices and maternal-fetal attachment. Methodology: A correlational, cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted between January and May, 2015, in a sample consisting of 179 pregnant women at 20 or more weeks of gestation, who were being followed-up in two Healthcare Clusters in the North of Portugal. The Maternal-Fetal Attachment Scale and the Inventory for Assessing Memories of Parental Rearing Behavior were used. Results: Maternal-fetal attachment increases with gestational age and is correlated with memories of parental practices. Conclusion: Maternal-fetal attachment can be influenced by different aspects, such as gestational age or the memories of parental practices. Thus, it is essential that midwives prepare the pregnant woman both for birth and her role as a mother.