EVALUATION OF THE BELIEFS OF 189 MOTHERS CONCERNING THE SENSORY CAPACITIES OF THEIR NEONATES - IS INFORMATION A TOOL FOR PREVENTIVE ACTION

The aim of this study tvas to evaluate maternal beliefs concerning neo natal performances, to compare them with currently accepted knowledge and to analyse parameters that could influence the maternal judgement. Population and methods. - A total of 189 mothers in the postpartum pe riod were prospectively questioned about their belief concerning the d evelopmental visual, auditive, olfactive, gustative and sensitive func tions of their neonates. Results. - Only 57.7% of mothers agreed with the fact that their neonates were able to see. Similarly, there were m ore than 80% for the olfactive and gustative function and more than 90 % for the additive function and pain discrimination. Multiparity and h igh level of professional activities improved the mothers' answers abo ut the visual abilities of their their neonates. Scientific informatio n through media appeared poorly assimilated. Conclusions. - The rime s pent by the mothers in the maternity home or ward could be used to inf orm them.