I was recently asked how childbirth educators can help reduce fear in expecting families during these stressful times. Pregnancy is often anxiety-filled, even in the best of seasons. With rising sociopolitical instability and a global pandemic in full swing, pregnant women are experiencing unusually high levels of fear and anxiety (Saccone et al., 2020). In addition to birth fears, families are now dealing with added stressors such as isolation, financial insecurity, and fear of the coronavirus.
Fear not only influences psychological well-being, it activates a hormonal stress response that can produce unfavourable birth and long-term health outcomes (King et al., 2012; Kramer et al., 2009). It can lead to longer labours and increased risk for caesarean section, preterm births, and lower infant birth weights (Adams et al., 2012; Loomans et al., 2013; Lima et al., 2018). Childbirth educators are in a unique position to help families reduce and manage fear because we are experts in the three E’s: Education, Empowerment, and Encouragement.
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