Exploring the Relationship Between Mother and Fetus – Spiritual Connection

The relationship between a mother and her fetus is a unique and profound experience that has significant effects not only on the mother but also on the unborn child. Fetal-maternal relationship analysis is a self-discovery and psycho-educational approach that helps expectant mothers connect more consciously with their children. This method takes place in a relaxed state, where the mother evokes inner images and feelings to explore the depth of her connection with the fetus.

With the help of this method, mothers can reduce stress, strengthen their maternal competence, and establish a bond with the fetus even in the early stages of pregnancy. Experts believe that this early connection is extremely important, as experiences and feelings gained during fetal life can have long-term effects on the child’s development.

These encounters are significant not only during pregnancy but also play an important role in the development of the parent-child relationship in the subsequent period.

The Development of Relationship Analysis

The roots of the method trace back to psychoanalytic approaches developed by Dr. György Hidas, a psychiatrist, and Dr. Jenő Raffai, a psychologist. According to Raffai’s theory, the first experiences of fetal life are shaped through feelings, and the baby perceives the outside world through the mother. Based on this concept, the connection between fetal trauma and later mental illnesses has also been emphasized.

The method has spread worldwide, particularly in Germany, the United States, Austria, and Poland, while its later acceptance in Hungary is partly due to the literature. Professionals with medical and psychological backgrounds are qualified to apply fetal-maternal relationship analysis, ensuring the method’s professionalism.

Connecting with the Fetus

The period of pregnancy often carries tensions and anxieties, which can be reduced during relationship analysis. The method provides an opportunity for the mother to meet the fetus in a safe environment and express her feelings. During these experiences, the fetus can also send signals that strengthen the bond and trust.

Experts suggest that pregnancy is a normative crisis that can be overwhelming, but relationship analysis can help the mother find answers to previously unarticulated questions and strengthen her maternal competence. The connection between mother and fetus can begin in the early stages of pregnancy, continuing even after childbirth. According to mothers’ experiences, babies whose mothers use this method are more confident and courageous, as they arrive at birth already familiar.

Experiences of Expectant Mothers

The application of relationship analysis is generally recommended from the 20th week of pregnancy, but many participate in sessions even earlier, starting from the 10th week. This is especially important for those who have previously lost a baby, as the method can reinforce the trust of expectant mothers. Based on mothers’ experiences, during relationship analysis, sensing the baby’s happiness and love brings relief and joy to their faces.

Sessions are held weekly, and it is recommended to meet at the same time to help babies get accustomed to the routine. During the analysis, mothers focus not only on connecting with the fetus but also on processing their emotional state, which strengthens the bond between them.

The Role of Fathers

Relationship analysis can be beneficial not only for mothers but also for fathers. Fathers’ participation in the process can positively affect the couple’s relationship, as shared experiences strengthen family ties. For example, Mónika initially attended the sessions alone early in her pregnancy, but later her husband joined, which was a special experience for them.

With fathers involved, the awareness of pregnancy and preparation for childbirth become richer. During joint discussions, parents can express what they wish to show their child, contributing to their vision of future family life.

Wide Application Possibilities of the Method

Although fetal-maternal relationship analysis was primarily developed for expectant mothers, the method can be applied in other areas as well. It can be useful in cases of fertilization difficulties, during in vitro fertilization programs, or for processing birth experiences. The analysis can also help prevent infant regulatory disorders, such as feeding difficulties or excessive crying.

During the application of the method, babies can signal if they have problems, for example, in cases of intrauterine growth restriction, which can assist parents in managing the situation. Issues arising during relationship analysis can aid in the grieving process if loss becomes inevitable.

Facilitating Childbirth

Fetal-maternal relationship analysis can significantly reduce the need for unwanted interventions, such as cesarean sections. The relaxed state achieved through the method and the strengthening of maternal competence facilitate childbirth, as the fetus can actively participate in the process.

The psychological aspect of childbirth is also important, as the psychological preparedness of the expectant mother influences the course of labor. The strong connection between mother and fetus promotes the natural course of childbirth and makes mothers more confident, enabling them to respond to the baby’s signals.

The application of the method enriches not only the childbirth process but also the parent-child relationship, allowing mothers and fathers to prepare consciously for the arrival of their child.

Author: Dr. Ildikó Fári, fetal-maternal relationship analyst, perinatal specialist.