FACTORES RELACIONADOS AL VÍNCULO MATERNO-FETAL DURANTE EL EMBARAZO

Abstract

The maternal-fetal bond (MFB) is an emotional and physical connection that influences the well-being and development of the mother and child, so its research is essential. However, in Latin America, studies continue to be scarce although their need persists due to the psychosocial vulnerability among the population of Guayaquil, Ecuador. Objective: To determine the factors that could influence the MFB in a sample of pregnant women treated in various hospitals in the city. Methods: This descriptive, observational, correlational study, with prospective variables collection, cross-sectional, multicenter, was conducted on a non-probabilistic sample of 331 pregnant women. The EVAP survey was used to determine the MFB, and participants were questioned about 28 demographic and gynecological-obstetric factors. Results: Several factors were found to be related to the MFB, but only two influence it: maternal age with a positive association (p = 0.001); and the number of previous children with a negative association (rho= -1.15, p = 0.005). None of these factors is modifiable, but their knowledge is useful to promote the development of educational programs, however, other factors that are modifiable include: positive thoughts about the baby (p<0.001, positively), and high levels of maternal distress (p<0.001, negatively). Conclusions: It is concluded that psychosocial support, to decrease levels of distress and increase positive thoughts about the baby, is essential to strengthen MFB in pregnant women in Guayaquil, and enjoy the benefits it offers.