The Impact of Ultrasound on Prenatal Attachment Among Disembodied and Embodied Knowers

Utilizing data from three studies that each focused on a different population (expectant mothers, expectant grandmothers, expectant fathers), this study sought to explore the perceived impact of ultrasound technology on feelings of prenatal attachment, hypothesizing significant differences in perceived impact would exist between expectant mothers, fathers, and grandmothers and between embodied and disembodied knowers. Participants in all three studies completed an online questionnaire which contained a 14-item prenatal attachment scale that required them to indicate how strongly they perceived the ultrasound exam affected their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors regarding the unborn baby and the pregnancy. Results of analysis of variance and t-test analyses did not support the hypotheses. Significant differences did exist on individual attachment scale items. The findings of the study have implications for health care practice, as well as for facilitating family involvement and support for pregnant women.