Fear of childbirth in women with normal pregnancy evolution

The authors aimed to research the prevalence of fear of childbirth (FOC) in women with a positive birth experience and some factors associated with FOC.

The study sample consisted of 817 women with positive birth experience within the last month of their pregnancy from February 2012 to May 2013. The data were collected with a questionnaire form including women's demographic-obstetric information and the Turkish form of Wijma Delivery Expectancy Questionnaire. Whether it was a planned pregnancy and their preferable delivery method for the current pregnancy were recorded.

The total number of women with FOC was found to be 128 (15.6%). None of the patients had severe FOC. Fear of labour pain was found as the major cause for preferring cesarean section (73.5%). FOC was associated with preferring delivery methods (OR 5.91, 95% CI 3.96-8.84). FOC was associated with pregnancy planning status (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.66-3.58).

Fear of childbirth may be seen to some extent in women with a positive birth experience. However even with woman's positive birth experience, it is important to avoid severe FOC. The pregnancy planning status should be evaluated in the early stages of pregnancy and maternal education programs may be offered to reduce FOC level.