Overview

• Up to 60% of third-trimester women report fear of childbirth, with 12% classified as experiencing severe anxiety
• Higher mental wellbeing scores, strong social connections and confidence in coping strategies correlate with reduced childbirth fear
• Researchers recommend antenatal classes incorporate confidence-building exercises, emotional support and relaxation methods alongside medical instruction
• The findings are published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynaecology and reinforce WHO priorities on maternal mental health
• Study authors are organizing larger, multi-site trials to validate these protective factors across diverse populations