1. The impact of antenatal imaging on parent experience and prenatal attachment: a systematic review.
- Author
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Skelton, Emily, Webb, Rebecca, Malamateniou, Christina, Rutherford, Mary, and Ayers, Susan
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PARENT attitudes , *CINAHL database , *MEDICAL databases , *ONLINE information services , *PRENATAL diagnosis , *MEDICAL information storage & retrieval systems , *SYSTEMATIC reviews , *PARENT-infant relationships , *EXPERIENCE , *FAMILY-centered care , *RESEARCH funding , *MEDLINE , *THEMATIC analysis , *FETAL ultrasonic imaging , *GREY literature - Abstract
Medical imaging in pregnancy (antenatal imaging) is routine. However, the effect of seeing fetal images on the parent–fetal relationship is not well understood, particularly for fathers or partners, or when using advanced imaging technologies. This review aimed to explore how parent experience and prenatal attachment is impacted by antenatal imaging. Database searches were performed between September 2020 and April 2021 Inclusion criteria were English language primary research studies published since 2000, describing or reporting measures of attachment after antenatal imaging in expectant parents. The Pillar Integration Process was used for integrative synthesis. Twenty-three studies were included. Six pillar themes were developed: 1) the scan experience begins before the scan appointment; 2) the scan as a pregnancy ritual; 3) feeling actively involved in the scan; 4) parents' priorities for knowledge and understanding of the scan change during pregnancy; 5) the importance of the parent–sonographer partnership during scanning; and 6) scans help to create a social identity for the unborn baby. Antenatal imaging can enhance prenatal attachment. Parents value working collaboratively with sonographers to be actively involved in the experience. Sonographers can help facilitate attachment by delivering parent-centred care tailored to parents' emotional and knowledge needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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