The impact of tokophobia in modern Europe: contributing factors and societal outcomes
Ibrahim, Asana Imani (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025120432611
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025120432611
Tiivistelmä
The aim of this study is to educate about the pathological nature of tokophobia or the fear of childbirth which poses as one of the challenges of maternal health across Europe. Using a descriptive literature review, the research explores the prevalence, psychological impact, and clinical implications of tokophobia using peer re-viewed publications from CINAHL, PubMed, and ScienceDirect, chose based on the defined inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Results show significant differences in reported prevalence rates among European countries, indicating cultural, systemic and diagnostic differences in recognising and treating the problem. Tokophobia continuously emerges as an important maternal health concern, affecting several women, causing emotional distress, anxiety and avoidance of vaginal delivery. A remarkable consequence is the arising rate of caesarean section used as a coping method, thus exposing women to further complications. This paper emphasises on the urgent need for improved monitoring, health strategies, and support systems to address tokophobia and promoting informed, compassionate maternity care.
Results show significant differences in reported prevalence rates among European countries, indicating cultural, systemic and diagnostic differences in recognising and treating the problem. Tokophobia continuously emerges as an important maternal health concern, affecting several women, causing emotional distress, anxiety and avoidance of vaginal delivery. A remarkable consequence is the arising rate of caesarean section used as a coping method, thus exposing women to further complications. This paper emphasises on the urgent need for improved monitoring, health strategies, and support systems to address tokophobia and promoting informed, compassionate maternity care.