Amniocentesis due to advanced maternal age: the role of marital intimacy in couples' decision-making process

Bárbara Nazaré*, Ana Fonseca, Sofia Gameiro, Maria Cristina Canavarro, Frank M. Dattilio

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

13 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Due to the risk of fetal anomaly, pregnant women of advanced maternal age are given the option to undergo amniocentesis. In our study we aimed to describe couples' decision-making process regarding amniocentesis, and assess whether it is influenced by marital intimacy and men's participation in genetic counseling. During pregnancy, 112 couples answered the Personal Assessment of Intimacy in Relationships questionnaire and scales regarding the decision to undergo amniocentesis. Most couples shared and reached an agreement regarding this decision. Higher levels of marital engagement and communication, but not men's participation, were associated with higher agreement, influence, and decision-sharing. Clinical implications are discussed.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)128-142
Number of pages15
JournalContemporary Family Therapy
Volume33
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jun 2011
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Advanced maternal age
  • Amniocentesis
  • Couple interdependency
  • Decision-making
  • Marital intimacy

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