Background factors in pregnant women with and without fear of childbirth

Abstract

Late pregnant women were categorized, on the basis of a questionnaire, as ‘suffering’ or ‘not suffering’ from fear of childbirth. A wide range of negative life experiences, appearing in inconsistent combinations, were found to be associated with fear of childbirth. Negative experiences of childhood and of sexuality while growing up, together with a general proneness to anxiety, appeared to be significant background factors.