Fear of childbirth and post traumatic stress disorder: Exploration of a prevention tool

Context and background: Women who are fearful of childbirth show a greater risk of developing post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after birth. In Belgium, the prevalence and risk factors of fear of childbirth have never been... [ view full abstract ]

Context and background: Women who are fearful of childbirth show a greater risk of developing post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after birth. In Belgium, the prevalence and risk factors of fear of childbirth have never been explored. The association between fear and the risk of PTSD (symptoms) suggested the need for a preventative measure that can be implemented before childbirth. Biofeedback training (heart rate variability) has been explored in previous research as a preventative intervention for PTSD in other settings.
Aim of the study: To explore the current situation about childbirth related fear among pregnant women during the antenatal period in Flanders, Belgium. Furthermore to evaluate the usefulness and effectiveness of biofeedback training in the antenatal period in the prevention of childbirth related PTSD in women at risk.
Research Methodology: Participants were recruited through private practices of their personal obstetrician in Antwerp. A questionnaire measuring childbirth related fear and enquiring personal, obstetric and social characteristics was presented to women in the last trimester of pregnancy. When they scored above the cut-off and met the inclusion criteria for the intervention were invited to start biofeedback training. The progress of this training was evaluated regularly. A control group was used.
Key findings: Data collection took place from January till October 2014, a sample of 349 pregnant women was achieved. 12.5 percent of the participants showed severe fear of childbirth. Ten women were willing to participate in the second part of the study of whom 5 were invited to use biofeedback training. The complete data analysis is currently in progress.
Conclusions: Fear of childbirth is present among pregnant women in Antwerp, Belgium. The results will be presented at the conference.