Effects of maternal anxiety on perception of fetal movements in late pregnancy.

Background: To determine whether maternal state and trait anxiety levels affect maternal perception of fetal movements in the third trimester.

Method: Forty healthy pregnant nulliparous women not on medication and with a singleton, uncomplicated pregnancy were studied. Maternal anxiety was assessed using the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI, Form-Y) at 36 gestational weeks.

Maternal anxiety in late pregnancy: effect on fetal movements and fetal heart rate.

Aim: To determine whether maternal state and trait anxiety levels affect fetal movements or fetal heart rate (FHR) in the third trimester.

Subjects: Forty-one healthy pregnant nulliparous women not on medication and with a singleton pregnancy.

Study Design: Maternal anxiety was assessed using the Spielberger State- Trait Anxiety Inventory (Form Y) at 36 gestational weeks.