Pregnant women’s background knowledge, expectations and attitude about second trimester detailed ultrasound scan

Authors : Yasemin Doğan, Ercan Koçkaya, Müzeyyen Dilşad Eser, Ayşe Seda Daryal

Pages : 395-402

Doi:10.53446/actamednicomedia.1343262

View : 108 | Download : 118

Publication Date : 2023-10-21

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Objective: Our objective is to investigate the pregnant women’s background knowledge, expectations, emotional status and attitudes about detailed ultrasonography performed between 18-24 weeks of gestation. Methods: A cross-sectional survey study with a consecutive sampling method was conducted with the pregnant women between 18- 24 weeks of gestation admitted to the perinatology unit at a tertiary referral center. Questionnaire was designed for the study and it was mainly composed of closed questions investigating pregnant women’s sociodemographic data, obstetric history, background information about ultrasound, purpose&expectations, opinion about invasive diagnostic testing and termination of pregnancy in fetal anomalies and emotional status. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: Two hundred fifty seven pregnant women were enrolled to the study. Confirmation of health of the baby was the main motive for having an ultrasound scan at second trimester. One hundred twentyfive (48,6%) and 77 (30%) women believed that all congenital anomalies and all genetic diseases are detectable by second trimester ultrasound respectively. Ultrasonography was regarded as a safe imaging method for the fetus by 162 (63%) women. Multiparous women did not have a better background knowledge about ultrasound scan than nulliparous. In the case of a severe fetal anomaly, 193 (75%) women said they would continue pregnancy. Overall number of women that felt anxious prior to the ultrasound scan decreased and their feelings changed in a positive way following ultrasound examination (p<0.001). Conclusion: Adequate knowledge of pregnant women about what exactly second trimester ultrasound involves in addition to false positives and false negatives is of paramount importance. More efficient strategies for patient education has to be developed in order to enhance awareness about second trimester ultrasound’s purpose, safety and limitations.
Keywords : ikinci trimester ultrason, konjenital anomali, genetik hastalık, ultrasonun güvenilirliği