Antenatal Care Provided by Health Workers: Its Relationship to Maternal-Fetal Attachment

Abstract

This study examined the quality of antenatal care provided by healthcare workers and the level of maternal-fetal attachment (MFA) among pregnant women in Canaman, Camarines Sur. Specifically, it aimed to assess the quality of antenatal care along six dimensions: health education, anticipatory guidance, time allocation, approachability of healthcare workers, availability of healthcare resources, and support. It also explored the level of maternal-fetal attachment in terms of positive emotion, attention to physical progress, reciprocal interaction, monitoring and imaging of the unborn baby, and desire to protect unborn baby from harm and increase mother’s health practices. Furthermore, it investigated the relationship between antenatal care quality and MFA, identified contributing factors, and proposed recommendations based on the findings.

A concurrent mixed-method design was employed, integrating quantitative data from structured questionnaires with qualitative insights from in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed through weighted mean and Pearson correlations, while qualitative data were examined thematically.

     Results showed that the overall quality of antenatal care was rated as Very High, the rating suggest a generally positive perception of care, particularly in interpersonal and emotional aspects. Also, the overall maternal-fetal attachment level was rated as Very Strong, reflecting a high degree of emotional and behavioral connection between mothers and their unborn children.

In exploring the relationship between QAC and MFA, the overall quality of antenatal care showed no statistically significant correlation with the total level of maternal-fetal attachment. However, specific components of care revealed important associations. Health education and time allocation showed weak and non-significant correlations with MFA dimensions, indicating limited influence. In contrast, anticipatory guidance was moderately associated with paying attention and strongly correlated with reciprocal interaction, while availability of healthcare resources was significantly linked to paying attention. Support emerged as the most influential factor, strongly correlating with positive emotion and underscoring the emotional value of encouragement and empathy from healthcare workers.

The study concludes that beyond routine clinical services, emotionally responsive and relationship-focused antenatal care is crucial in strengthening maternal-fetal attachment and supporting maternal role attainment.