Update on the Global Prevalence of Severe Fear of Childbirth in Low-Risk Pregnant Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objectives: Severe fear of childbirth (FOC) has adverse consequences for mother and child. This study aimed to update the global prevalence severe FOC in low-risk pregnant women. Materials Methods: Observational studies published English were obtained through PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Wiley Online, Google Scholar databases up April 2020. After reviewing title introduction, quality articles that had full text met inclusion criteria was checked with JBI checklist. Then, final extracted data entered into STATA software. The overall subgroups using meta-analysis. Tests publication bias sensitivity analysis also performed. Results: Overall, 27 observational included (26014 participants). 16% (95% CI: 14%–19%). subgroup showed after 2015, higher than before (%18 versus %14). results a women diploma lower compared university education (%19 %13), single/divorced married/cohabitation (%21 %15), nulliparous multiparous (%17 %14) experiencing second trimester pregnancy third (%23 Conclusions: 16%. Diagnostic, preventive, therapeutic follow-up strategies are needed reduce all countries.