The effects of angel sounds and guided imagery technique played to expectant couples on attachment, anxiety and sleep quality

Aim: The research was carried out to determine the effects of listening to fetal heart sounds, expressed as the metaphor of the angel sounds, and the application of guided imagery technique on attachment, anxiety, and sleep quality in expectant couples. Material and method: The randomized controlled, experimental research was conducted with 177 women and 177 men, sFHS=59couples, sGIT=59couples, and sControl=59couples. The couples in the experimental groups underwent pre-sleep intervention for 3 days. Fetal heart sounds were played for at least 20 minutes in the FHS group, and imaginary recordings containing different scenarios were played daily in the GIT group. The results of the research were measured by using the "Personal Information Forms, MAAS, PAAS, SAI, and RCSQ". Descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance, tukey test, t-test for dependent groups, and chi-square test were used to analyze the data. Results: It was determined that FHS listening and GIT implementation increased the level of prenatal attachment in couples (p<0.05) and there was no difference between the two interventions in terms of prenatal attachment. It was determined that FHS listening and GIT implementation decreased the level of state anxiety and increased sleep quality in women (p<0.05). It was observed that FHS listening was more effective in decreasing the anxiety level in women compared to GIT implementation. It was found that both interventions increased sleep quality in men and the anxiety level of the men in the group in which only listened to FHS was decreased (p<0.05), whereas GIT implementation had no effect on men's anxiety (p>0.05). Conclusion: The interventions were found to have a positive effect on improving attachment and sleep quality in couples expecting a baby. While both interventions were effective in reducing the anxiety level of women, only FHS listening was effective in reducing the anxiety level of men. It may be recommended to listen to fetal heart sound or to use guided imagery practices to support couples' attachment and sleep and to reduce their anxiety during pregnancy.