What causes tocophobia, the fear of pregnancy and childbirth?

According to the NHS, approximately 1,600 babies are born every day in the United Kingdom. But what often goes unspoken are the nine months leading up to this event—the periods of anxiety, doubt, and self-discovery that mothers inevitably experience. A study published in Evolution, Medicine & Public Health journal in April 2023, found that 62% of women grapple with a panic-inducing fear of pregnancy and childbirth. Psychologists refer to this phenomenon as tocophobia. So, where does tocophobia come from? What are its symptoms then? And how can a woman overcome it? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: How did flat Earth conspiracy theory start? Is it a good idea to sleep with my pet? What's the best way to choose my toothpaste? A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. In partnership with upday UK. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices