Maternal attachment after preterm birth: Exploring the impact of maternal stress and anxiety

Abstract

Premature birth is a critical event affecting mothers’ psychological well-being. Maternal attachment, maternal stress, and maternal anxiety related to preterm birth play key roles in mother-infant bonding and family health. This study aimed to assess maternal attachment in mothers of premature infants and examine its relationship with maternal anxiety related to preterm birth, maternal stress, and demographic factors. Data were collected from 200 mothers using the Beck Anxiety Scale (BAS), Maternal Attachment Scale (MAS), and Parental Stress Scale (PSS). Correlational analysis was performed with Pearson’s correlation. Results showed high maternal stress and maternal anxiety related to preterm birth levels, and low maternal attachment. MAS scores were moderately negatively correlated with BAS (p < 0.05) and moderately positively correlated with PSS (p < 0.05). Mothers reporting poor partner relationships or lack of support had significantly lower attachment scores (p < 0.05). Findings suggest that elevated stress and maternal anxiety related to preterm birth negatively affect maternal attachment, while partner support is crucial. Interventions enhancing maternal mental health and partner involvement may improve attachment outcomes among mothers of premature infants.