Influence of elective and emergency cesarean delivery on mother emotions and bonding
Francesca Volpe
Policlinico Abano Terme, Italy
: J Womens Health, Issues Care
Abstract
Introduction: Previous studies indicated that mode of delivery could have a negative effect on bonding, one of the cornerstones of the optimal relationship between mother and infant. Methods: At Policlinico Abano Terme, Italy, we assessed mother’s feelings towards newborns after vaginal delivery (VD) or cesarean: elective (ELCD) or emergency (EMCD). The study involved 573 consecutive, at term, healthy mothers-infant’s dyads. Mothers were divided into three groups: women undergone ElCD (n = 73; 12.73%), women undergone EMCD (n = 81; 14.13%) and women who gave birth vaginally (n = 419; 73.12%). Pre-discharge, they completed Mother-to-Infant Bonding Scale (MIBS), a self-report test to measure mother’s feelings toward her baby, based on eight items (Loving, Resentful, Neutral or Felt Nothing, Joyful, Dislike, Protective, Disappointed and Aggressive). High scores indicate worse mother-to infant bonding and a score ≥2, established as cut-off, indicates an altered bonding. Results: The average global score was 0.50 (±1.05) in VD mothers, 0.67 (±1.14) in ELCD mothers and 0.92 (±1.05) in EMCD mothers, with p=0.001. The percentage of altered bonding was significantly higher in EMCD women (23.45% vs. 11.21%; p<0.006). Moreover, EMCD mothers scored significantly higher in Joyful (p<0.005), Disappointed (p<0.008), and Dislike (p<0 .072). Conclusion: In conclusion, emergency cesarean delivery could negatively affect mother bonding and opening emotions, and originates in mother feelings like sadness, disappointment and dislike for the unplanned delivery evolution.
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