Childbirth is a natural and miraculous experience that represents the start of fresh life and joy. But what if the very thought of childbirth sends shivers down your spine and triggers an overwhelming sense of fear? This fear of childbirth is known as tokophobia, which can have an impact on your physical and emotional well-being. Understanding the types, symptoms, causes, and diagnosis of tokophobia is crucial in providing support and effective treatment.
We spoke to Dr Achal Bhagat, Senior Consultant, Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, who explained this condition in detail.
What Is Tokophobia?
Dr Bhagat said that tokophobia is characterised by an intense fear of childbirth that can be debilitating, impacting a woman's mental and emotional well-being. It can affect women who have never given birth before, but it can also impact women who have had horrific delivery experiences in the past. This anxiety may cause women to avoid becoming pregnant, even if they wish to have children or to have a caesarean section to prevent vaginal birth.
Dr Bhagat further added that there are two types of tokophobia; primary tokophobia and secondary tokophobia. Primary tokophobia refers to a fear of childbirth experienced by women who have never given birth before. Secondary tokophobia, on the other hand, occurs in women who previously had traumatic childbirth experiences.
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Symptoms Of Tokophobia
Dr Bhagat said that the symptoms of tokophobia can manifest in various ways. Some of these are as follows:
- When exposed to childbirth-related topics, images, or scenarios, you may have severe anxiety or panic attacks.
- Intrusive thoughts or nightmares about childbirth, often involve negative outcomes. Intrusive thoughts about childbirth often involve negative outcomes.
- Avoidance of pregnancy or discussions about childbirth, such as prenatal appointments or baby showers.
- Emotional distress, including feelings of dread, sadness, hopelessness, or even depression.
- Physical symptoms like increased heart rate, sweating, trembling, or shortness of breath when confronted with the idea of childbirth.
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Causes Of Tokophobia
Dr Bhagat added that the causes of tokophobia can be multifaceted. Here are some of the causes that may cause fear of childbirth:
Past Traumatic Experiences
Women who have experienced a traumatic childbirth, such as difficult or traumatic childbirth and emergency procedures can contribute to the development of tokophobia.
Fear Of Loss of Control
Tokophobia can be exacerbated by a fear of losing control during childbirth, including anxieties about pain, body changes, or medical interventions.
Negative Information Or Media Exposure
Exposure to negative stories or graphic portrayals of childbirth through media, friends, or family members can create a sense of fear and anxiety.
Underlying Anxiety Disorders
Individuals with pre-existing anxiety disorders may be more prone to developing tokophobia due to their general tendency to experience excessive worry and fear.
Diagnosing And Managing Tokophobia
Dr Achal revealed that diagnosing tokophobia involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. The assessment typically includes an examination of the woman's medical history, psychiatric evaluation, and discussions about her fears and concerns regarding childbirth. Collaborative efforts between obstetricians, psychiatrists, and psychologists are crucial in diagnosing and managing tokophobia effectively.
Bottomline
If your fear of childbirth stems from anything else, such as past sexual abuse, distrust of the medical profession, or a previous traumatic birth, a mental health expert may be able to assist you in resolving those outstanding issues and reducing or eliminating your phobia. Apart from this, you can even work with an expert to help you acquire good coping strategies.