Effect of Supportive Information on Anxiety Levels in Pregnant Women Awaiting Amniocentesis Results: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of supportive information on anxiety levels in women awaiting amniocentesis results.

Material and Method: Women underwent amniocentesis were randomized into two groups according to whether they did (group A) or did not (group B) receive supportive information. Anxiety levels were measured using the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory at four time points, (1) after amniocentesis, (2) before phoning for test result appointment confirmation, (3) after phoning, during which supportive information was given to group A, and (4) before receiving the test results. Semistructured interviews were conducted after the last anxiety measurement.

Results: There were no significant differences in the state anxiety scores between the two groups after amniocentesis and before phoning to confirm that the amniocentesis results were available. The state anxiety scores after telephoning and before receiving the test results in group A were significantly lower than those in group B (36.69 vs. 42.50, p<0.001, and 39.16 vs. 42.82, p<0.05, respectively). We identified three stages of psychological distress, uncertainty of fetal safety, uncertainty of the test results, and hopefulness concerning the test results. Women in group B experienced only the two early stages of distress, whereas after receiving supportive information, the psychological state of women in group A further progressed to the hopefulness concerning the test result

Conclusion: Supportive information could alleviate the anxiety level of women awaiting amniocentesis results. Providing appropriate supportive information for each psychological stage should be considered for women underwent amniocentesis.