The effect of maternal-fetal attachment education on maternal mental health

Aim: A mother's mental health during pregnancy has a considerable effect on her infant's wellbeing. Therefore, various methods have been studied to improve maternal mental health with the purpose of reducing problems for mothers and babies. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of maternal-fetal attachment (MFA) education during the third trimester on the mother's mental health. Materials and methods: This interventional study was conducted on 83 pregnant women attending 6 healthcare centers in Sari, Iran, for routine antenatal check-ups. Data collection tools included interview checklists, the Cranley MFA Scale, and the General Health Questionnaire 28. The treatment group received education on MFA behavior, but the control group received only the routine antenatal care. The scores of mental health and MFA before and after training were compared across the 2 groups. Results: The results indicated that the mean difference between mental health scores before and after treatment due to group division was significant (t = 9.7, P < 0.001). The mean difference between MFA scores before and after treatment due to group division was also significant (t = 9.3, P < 0.001). Conclusion: The results indicate that educating mothers on MFA behavior can enhance the mother's mental health and attachment to the infant.