Interventions to treat fear of childbirth in pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background Between 5% and 14% of women suffer from fear childbirth (FOC) which is associated with difficulties during birth in postnatal psychological adjustment. Therefore, effective interventions are needed to improve outcomes for women. A systematic review meta-analysis was used identify treating FOC. Methods Literature searches were undertaken on online databases. Hand reference lists also carried out. Studies included the if they recruited FOC aimed reduce and/or outcomes. Data synthesised qualitatively quantitatively using meta-analysis. The literature provided a total 4474 citations. Results After removing duplicates screening through abstracts, titles full texts, 66 papers 48 studies identified inclusion review. Methodological quality mixed 30 out having medium risk bias. Interventions categorised into six broad groups: cognitive behavioural therapy, other talking therapies, antenatal education, enhanced midwifery care, alternative labour. showed that most reduced FOC, regardless approach (mean effect size = −1.27; z −4.53, p < 0.0001) therapies may caesarean section rates (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.48–0.90). Conclusions Poor methodological limits conclusions can be drawn; however, evidence suggests investigated Future high-quality randomised controlled trials so clear made.