Testing the Added Benefits of Pregnancy Ultrasound for Child Development

In addition to supporting maternal and child survival, visualizing the foetus during ultrasound (US) evokes strong emotions and in high-income countries (HICs) results in positive parental attitudes and attachment to baby, and increased health facility attendance. In 2016 WHO issued global antenatal care guidelines, recommending 8 antenatal visits and 1 ultrasound less than 24w. In this pilot randomized control trial in South Africa, we assess benefits of augmenting and increasing US by comparing 1 US (18-20w) with 2 variations: 1 US (18-20w) + counselling to increase maternal wellbeing and interest in and knowledge of child development, and a 2nd US with counselling at 32-36w. Partners are encouraged to accompany woman to US to increase men’s involvement in child development. Mothers and infants are assessed at 6w and 6m of age on child development and growth, breastfeeding, mother-infant attachment, maternal wellbeing and knowledge of child development, father involvement and pre- and post-natal clinic attendance.