engleski

The role of preparedness for childbirth in the association between intolerance of uncertainty and fear of childbirth.

Fear of childbirth (FOC) is prevalent in non-pregnant and pregnant women. The literature shows that in women who do not have delivery experience yet, personality traits are more important predictors of fear of childbirth. In contrast, previous experience has a more critical role in multiparous women. Intolerance of uncertainty is one of the predictors of FOC ; however, research is quite scarce and inconsistent, so it remains to examine whether this is the case in non-pregnant and pregnant women. This study aimed to examine the mediational role of preparedness for childbirth in the relationship between intolerance of uncertainty and FOC in nonpregnant women, pregnant nulliparous and pregnant multiparous women. In an online cross-sectional study, 365 women participated. Out of that, there were 197 non-pregnant women, 168 nulliparous pregnant, and 124 multiparous pregnant women. Participants filled in questionnaires on fear of childbirth (Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire, W-DEQ, A version) and Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale (IUS). Perceived preparedness for childbirth was measured with one item rated on a 5-point scale. Results showed that in non-pregnant women, intolerance of uncertainty is directly associated with higher levels of FOC and indirectly through lower levels of preparedness for childbirth. However, in nulliparous pregnant women, intolerance of uncertainty is associated with higher levels of FOC only indirectly through lower levels of preparedness for childbirth. On the other hand, there is no association between intolerance of uncertainty and FOC in multiparous pregnant women. In conclusion, perceived preparedness for childbirth is a partial mediator between intolerance of uncertainty in non-pregnant women and a full mediator in pregnant nulliparous women. These findings also have some practical implications. Prenatal classes and prevention programs should be implemented to boost preparedness for childbirth, not only in pregnant but in nonpregnant women also. It is necessary to reduce fear of childbirth so it does not have adverse effects on pregnancy plans and alleviate the impact on maternal mental health.

fear of childbirth ; intolerance of uncertainty ; preparedness for childbirth ; delivery

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