The effects of pregnancy complications on the parental adaptation process

The current study examined the effects of high-risk pregnancies on the adaptation process of parents of full-term healthy infants. Gender similarities and differences were also addressed to determine the adaptation process of parents who experience a high-risk pregnancy. The sample consisted of 68 high-risk and 59 low-risk pregnancy couples, making a total of 254 new parents. Questionnaires measuring general issues related to the parental adaptation process as well as several specific components dealing with parental role attainment were administered. An effect of risk status and gender was detected on the parental adaptation process. The experience of high obstetrical risks also appeared to have an effect on the perception of life changes and on the development of a sense of competence among parents. Moreover, the findings demonstrated that the gender of the parent contributed to parental experience. Women experienced significantly more life changes than did men. Mothers also differed from fathers in the sense of satisfaction they experienced in their roles as parents.