Psychological Effects of Ultrasonic Diagnosis on Pregnant Women: Comparison of Effector and Parity

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to clarify whether the psychological effects of an ultrasound examination on pregnant women differed based on whether performed by a physician or midwife, the background of pregnant women, and other factors.
Methods: An anonymous self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted after ultrasonography, involving 215 pregnant women showing a normal course.
Results: Maternal consciousness and behavior and attachment to the fetus became accompanied by a more positive acceptance owing to ultrasound examination. No difference in effect was noted between the procedure being conducted by a physician and midwife, but ultrasound examination had a marked effect on primiparas, pregnant women who viewed pregnancy positively when it was determined, and pregnant women who more strongly viewed the fetus as an individual different from or a part of themselves.
Conclusion: Ultrasound examination made by midwives had a similar psychological effect as that of physician. Thus, the results suggested the following: significance of ultrasound examination made by midwife, effectiveness of healthcare guidance for primiparas employing ultrasound examination, and importance of the examination and intervention for pregnant women to become aware of a fetus.