Non-Pharmacological Interventions to Support Maternal-Fetal Attachment Among Pregnant Women: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Introduction: Maternal-fetal attachment (MFA) is an important psychological process during pregnancy that influences a mother's emotional condition and early bonding with her baby. However, not all women develop this attachment in the same way, especially when facing challenges such as unintended pregnancy or previous pregnancy loss.

Objective: This scoping review aimed to map and describe non-pharmacological interventions used to support maternal-fetal attachment among pregnant women in antenatal care settings.

Methods: Scoping review following the Arksey and O'Malley framework. Data Sources: Searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library. Search dates: 2015–2025. Study selection followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines using the PCC framework. Dual independent reviewers screened all records using Rayyan. JBI critical appraisal tools were applied.

Results: A total of 1,301 articles were identified; 13 studies from 9 countries met the inclusion criteria. Three main intervention categories were identified: (1) education- and training-based interventions (38%), (2) psychological and emotional support-based interventions (31%), and (3) technology-assisted interventions (31%). Educational and psychosocial interventions demonstrated the most consistent improvements in MFA. Technology-based approaches improved specific dimensions, such as mother-fetus interaction, but not overall MFA scores.

Conclusion: Non-pharmacological interventions, particularly those integrating educational and psychosocial components, play an important role in supporting maternal-fetal attachment. Antenatal care programs should be multidimensional, culturally responsive, and routinely integrated into midwifery practice.