ABSTRACT:
A phobia is an anxiety disorder characterised by an excessive and persistent fear of a specific situation or object. Tokophobia, a hidden phobia of pregnancy, presents a significant challenge to reproductive health. It was first described in the mid-to-late 1800s but then rarely discussed in literature until the turn of 21st century. While often dismissed as simple anxiety, this intense, pathological fear of childbirth can have profound physical and psychological consequences for both mother and baby. It is a mental health condition that involves intense fear of pregnancy and childbirth. Tokophobia is classified into primary and secondary. In 13% nongravid women, the fear of pregnancy and childbirth is so intense that they may postpone or avoid pregnancy. However, a recent study from Ireland revealed lower severe FOC rates, both in nulliparous women [7.4%] and in multiparous women [4.3%]. In terms of frequency, approximately 20-78% of pregnant women report fear associated with pregnancy and child birth. Previous adverse medical/surgical experiences and a long duration of infertility may induce this fear. Some men can also experience tokophobia. Researchers have found that men with tokophobia often have a severe fear regarding the health and safety of their partner and child. This article delves into the complexities of tokophobia, exploring its prevalence, underlying causes, clinical presentation, and impact on pregnancy and childbirth. It also outlines potential treatment strategies, including psychotherapy and pharmacological interventions, highlighting the importance of early identification and sensitive management to improve maternal well-being and birth outcomes.
Cite this article:
Dr. B. Kumar; Chennuru Charanya; K.V. Rajasri; Mungara Rakesh Kumar;
Shaik Abidha Begum; Uttukuru Poojitha. Behind The Bump: The Hidden Phobia of Pregnancy, Tokophobia. IJRPAS, November 2025; 4(11): 60-66DOI: https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.71431/IJRPAS.2025.41106
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