Effect of prenatal genetic counseling on anxiety and test attitudes in pregnant women: a randomized trial.

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of prenatal genetic counseling on pregnant women's anxiety levels and attitudes towards prenatal diagnostic tests.

Method: This randomized controlled trial was conducted on 66 pregnant women who visited the Medical Genetics outpatient clinic of Adana City Hospital between September and December 2022. Data were collected using descriptive information forms, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S), Prenatal Screening and Diagnostic Tests Attitude Questionnaire (PSDTAQ). Data were analyzed using change-score analysis, linear mixed-effects models including group, time, and group × time interaction, and ANCOVA adjusted for baseline score, income, education, and gestational age. Effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals were also calculated.

Results: After adjustment for baseline values and potential confounders, prenatal genetic counseling significantly reduced STAI-S scores and improved PSDTAQ scores compared with routine care (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: These findings support the potential role of nurse-led prenatal genetic counseling in reducing anxiety and improving attitudes toward prenatal testing. Larger multicenter studies with longer follow-up are required before educational or policy recommendations can be made.