Viewing the unborn child – pregnant women’s expectations, attitudes and experiences regarding fetal ultrasound examination
Categorie(s):
Healt
Author(s):
Liv Øyen, Ingvild Aune
Keyword(s):
Kesehatan, kebidanan, Jurnal Internasion
DOI:
Abstract :
ABSTRACT
Objective: To gain a deeper understanding of pregnant women’s expectations, attitudes and experiences
regarding ultrasound examination during pregnancy.
Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with eight pregnant Norwegian women prior to their 18-
week scan. The data were analyzed through systematic text condensation.
Results: The analysis generated three main themes: (1) I want to know if everything is fine, (2) Viewing
the unborn child, (3) Holistic care. The women had a strong wish for ultrasound scanning and medical
knowledge about their “baby” was their first priority interest. Visualizing the “baby” represented a strong
emotional dimension for the parents-to-be and initiated the bonding process and the planning of a new
life. The women wanted to be empowered and approached in a holistic way, where dialogic communication
was needed.
Conclusion: The women wanted medical knowledge about the fetal health. They considered the examination
a visual experience together with their partner. The scan provided a personification of and an
attachment to the fetus. This experience was the first step in the planning of a new life. The women had
ambivalent feelings related to the ultrasound examination and they highlighted the importance of holistic
care, where the sharing of information happens on an individual basis.