Psychological Impact of a Prenatal Diagnosis of Congenital Heart Disease on Parents: Is It Time for Tailored Psychological Support?

Abstract

The prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart disease (CHD) represents, for both parents, a particularly stressful and traumatic life event from a psychological point of view. The present review sought to summarize the findings of the most relevant literature on the psychological impact of prenatal diagnosis of CHD on parents, describing the most common mechanisms employed in order to face this unexpected finding. We also highlight the importance of counseling and the current gaps in the effects of psychological support on this population.

Keywords

• congenital heart defects
• CHD
• prenatal diagnosis
• fear of childbirth
• EMDR treatment
• psychological impact of prenatal diagnosis on parents