How to cope with the fear of childbirth
In fact, about one in every five women experiences some fear around childbirth. Scientists note that fear can be triggered when stories about problematic childbirths are covered by the media [1].
Sometimes fear becomes so strong that it develops into tocophobia (literally, "fear of childbirth"). Studies show about 2.5 to 14% of women experience it worldwide [2].
How to cope with fear?
Consulting a perinatal psychologist or attending childbirth preparation classes will help you learn how to handle the fear and learning about the birthing process will give you confidence.
To further reduce anxiety you can also exercise, take prenatal yoga classes, or practice breathing exercises to help prepare your body for childbirth. Another option is hypnosis. Studies have shown that self-hypnosis classes are especially effective when a partner is attending them with a woman [1].
