[Fear of childbirth]

Duodecim. 2013;129(5):521-7.
[Article in Finnish]

Abstract

Fear of childbirth casts a shadow in 10% of the pregnancies. It can cause fear, mental illnesses and previous experiences of violence or bad experiences in giving birth. It is treated at the phobia clinic with the support of a midwife and an obstetrician. Psychoeducative group therapy intended for primigravid women has proven to be the most effective form of therapy. In addition to obstetric assessment, its cornerstones include hearing and supporting of the phobic patient. For most women fearing childbirth, proper therapy will encourage them and abandon their wish for cesarean section. Nobody should, however, be forced into vaginal delivery.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Delivery, Obstetric / psychology*
  • Fear / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Parturition / psychology*
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Pregnancy
  • Psychotherapy
  • Relaxation Therapy