Intensive intervention for fear of childbirth did not reduce requests for caesarean section but decreased duration of vaginal labour.

Intervention Women were allocated to intensive (n=85) or conventional (n=91) treatment. Intensive treatment consisted of provision of information and conversation regarding previous obstetric experiences, feelings, and misconceptions; routine obstetric check ups; and cognitive treatment. A midwife appointment and visits to the obstetric ward were recommended for information about pain relief and possible interventions during labour and delivery. Conventional treatment consisted of standard information and routine obstetric check ups. Both groups received written information about the pros and cons of vaginal delivery and caesarean section, and pain relief offered at the hospital.