Baskent University

The goal of this randomized, controlled study is to test the effectiveness of digital technology-supported education on patients undergoing breast reconstruction after mastectomy.

Pregnancies resulting from infertility treatment are considered normal and 'low-risk' in some countries, they often entail significant stress. Prenatal attachment may be experienced differently by parents conceiving through fertility interventions. The rising prevalence of fertility treatments is associated with increased risks such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and perinatal mortality for pregnancies achieved through infertility treatments. Beyond medical implications, post-infertility treatment pregnancies can induce high levels of anxiety and a perception of pregnancy as risky, affecting individuals psychologically. The transition to parenthood after infertility treatment can be psychologically challenging.
Healthy prenatal attachment in expectant mothers fosters the development of a healthy role as both mother and father. Maternal bonding is closely tied to a woman's mental health during the prenatal period and her commitment to her baby. Similarly, prenatal bonding with the father sheds light on the emotional connection developing between the father and the unborn child. Active participation in prenatal experiences, such as attending ultrasound appointments or discussing parenting plans, contributes to a stronger sense of attachment for fathers and establishes a positive foundation for future bonding. Supportive partner relationships during pregnancy enhance paternal bonding and emphasize the importance of a collaborative approach to prenatal care for both parents. The prenatal period is critical for fathers to establish an early emotional connection with their unborn children, laying a positive groundwork for postnatal bonding.
Various interventions aim to enhance communication between parents and augment prenatal attachment. One such practice is haptonomy-haptotherapy. Haptotherapy focuses on restoring emotional connections, especially with one's own body. It helps individuals recognize their emotional capacities and allows them to experience these capacities through insightful conversations, therapeutic touch, and skill exercises. In the context of pregnancy, haptonomy involves physical contact between the pregnant woman, her partner, and the unborn baby. Advocates of haptonomy believe that this touch-based communication can strengthen the bond between parents and the baby, promote a sense of security, and positively influence the pregnancy experience.
Haptonomy is thought to contribute positively to the psychological well-being of women during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period, potentially preventing mental health issues and enhancing the health of both mother and baby. It is emphasized that haptonomy is a distinct practice focused on enhancing communication between parents and the baby. Existing literature suggests that haptonomy can increase emotional bonding during the prenatal period and may be effective for parents showing low attachment. Studies indicate that touch communication develops from the second month, involving vibrations for communicating with the fetus, ultimately increasing bonding through haptonomy. Furthermore, haptonomy is reported to enhance both spousal and parental attachment, as demonstrated in a study emphasizing increased attachment for fathers with their partners and children.
Despite documented benefits of haptonomy in various patient groups, from cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to pregnant women and those with chronic pain, limited research exists on haptotherapy for pregnant women. This study aims to investigate the impact of partner-administered haptonomy on prenatal attachment and marital adjustment in pregnant women. Conducted through a randomized controlled experimental design, the study seeks to provide evidence by enhancing prenatal attachments in both mothers and fathers.
Research Hypotheses:
H0-1: The application of haptonomy by partners has an effect on maternal attachment in pregnant women.
H1-1: The application of haptonomy by partners does not have an effect on maternal attachment in pregnant women.
H0-2: The application of haptonomy by partners has no effect on paternal attachment in pregnant women.
H1-2: The application of haptonomy by partners has an effect on paternal attachment in pregnant women.
H0-3: The application of haptonomy by partners has no effect on marital adjustment in pregnant women.
H1-3: The application of haptonomy by partners has an effect on marital adjustment in pregnant women.

Introduction: People with transtibial amputation often suffer musculoskeletal deformities in the form of knee osteoarthritis or osteophytosis due to asymmetric movement patterns and often complain of associated symptoms. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the sagittal kinematics of the intact and residual knee in the use of Running-Specific Prostheses (RSP), which are increasing in popularity and use among amputees.
Materials and Methods: Participants will be video recorded in the sagittal plane to convert knee flexion motion into angles for the amputee and intact knee and to make measurements using the software's virtual goniometer. Recordings will be taken under the following two conditions: 1) walking at a self-selected walking speed with a Daily Use Prosthesis (DUP); 2) Slow running with RSP. The peak flexion during the swing phase and the initial flexion during the first contact of the stance phase will be recorded as angles in both conditions.