Fear of childbirth: why it's important to keep a positive attitude

Up to 60 per cent of women experience anxiety before the event, especially if they are expecting their firstborn. However, a new study has revealed just what it is that helps some mums-to-be stay calm and confident in the run-up to the baby's arrival.

In a world first, researchers from Robert Gordon University (Scotland) and the University of South Australia focused not on the causes of fear, but on the factors that help overcome it. The study surveyed 88 late-term pregnant women who attended childbirth preparation courses in the north-east of Scotland.

Using the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale, experts assessed how psychological well-being, self-belief and support affected levels of fear of childbirth. It turned out that only 12 per cent of the participants had a high level of fear (FOC). Confident, positive women in strong relationships were much less likely to experience anxiety about their upcoming labour.

As Dr Katrina Forbes-McKay points out, these results provide valuable clues for improving prenatal preparation. Experts believe that modern programmes lack an emphasis on the inner resources of expectant mothers - confidence, coping with stress, a sense of meaning and support.

Professor Tracey Humphrey adds that the level of psychological wellbeing has become a major factor influencing perceptions of future births. "It is important not only to teach breathing and relaxation techniques, but also to build confidence and help women find support and joy in their new roles," she says.

The study calls for a change in approach in birth preparation:

• emphasise developing confidence and psychological comfort;

• maintain social connections and create a positive environment;

• develop not only medical knowledge but also the ability to manage emotions.

In a separate project led by midwife Mo Tabib, regular relaxation practices such as breathing exercises, visualisation and relaxation techniques were shown to significantly improve women's psychological well-being. This effect persisted even 4-8 weeks after childbirth.

Researchers believe that supporting confidence and mental health can not only reduce anxiety, but also reduce the number of medical interventions, increase labour satisfaction and promote healthier baby development.