Author(s):
Jisha Joseph, Ann Maria S, Anna Maria James, Anna Mathai, Annu Ullas, Anu Maria Antony, Nini Babu
Email(s):
sampoornamwebster@yahoo.in
DOI:
10.52711/ijnmr.2026.07 
Address:
Jisha Joseph1, Ann Maria S2, Anna Maria James2, Anna Mathai2, Annu Ullas2, Anu Maria Antony2, Nini Babu3
1Associate Professor and HOD, Department of Obstetrical and Gynecological Nursing, M.O.S.C College of Nursing, Kolenchery. Kerala, India.
27th Semester BSc Nursing Students, M.O.S.C College of Nursing, Kolenchery. Kerala, India.
3Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrical and Gynecological Nursing, M.O.S.C College of Nursing, Kolenchery, Kerala, India.
*Corresponding Author
Published In:
Volume - 5,
Issue - 1,
Year - 2026
ABSTRACT:
Childbirth is a remarkable and deeply personal experience for every woman. A prevalent issue that impacts women's health and well-being throughout pregnancy is fear of childbirth (Tokophobia). This study focused on evaluating the determinants of tokophobia and the preferred mode of delivery among antenatal mothers in third trimester. The research question of this study was, what are the determinants of tokophobia and how do they influence the preferred mode of delivery among antenatal mothers attending the OPD of a selected tertiary care center in Ernakulam district, Kerala? The objectives were to estimate the magnitude of tokophobia and to identify the determinants of tokophobia among antenatal mothers. Also, to analyse the association between tokophobia and the preferred mode of delivery among antenatal mothers. A quantitative cross-sectional analytical design was employed, involving 140 antenatal mothers selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using the standardized Wijma Delivery Expectancy Questionnaire (WDEQ-10) to assess tokophobia levels and a structured questionnaire to evaluate socio-demographic, obstetric, and psychological determinants, as well as the preferred mode of delivery. The study found that 70.71% of participants experienced low fear, 28.57% moderate fear, and 0.71% high fear, with a median fear score of 18 (IQR: 15.75–21). No significant associations were observed between tokophobia and most socio-demographic, obstetric, or psychological variables, except for a statistically significant association with a previous history of tokophobia (p < 0.05). Additionally, no significant association was found between tokophobia and the preferred mode of delivery, with 97% of participants preferring vaginal delivery. These findings suggested that while tokophobia was prevalent at low to moderate levels, prior experiences of childbirth-related fear significantly influenced its persistence, highlighting the need for targeted psychological interventions. The lack of association with delivery preference contrasts with some prior studies, possibly due to cultural or healthcare system differences. Early identification and management of tokophobia are crucial in improving maternal satisfaction and reducing unnecessary surgical interventions. Insights from this study can guide healthcare providers in offering personalized care plans that enhance maternal satisfaction and reduce unnecessary cesarean sections.
Cite this article:
Jisha Joseph, Ann Maria S, Anna Maria James, Anna Mathai, Annu Ullas, Anu Maria Antony, Nini Babu. Determinants of Tokophobia and Preferred Mode of Delivery among Antenatal Mothers – A Hospital Based Cross Sectional Study. A and V Pub InternationalJournal of Nursing and Medical Research. 2026; 5(1):27-3. doi: 10.52711/ijnmr.2026.07
Cite(Electronic):
Jisha Joseph, Ann Maria S, Anna Maria James, Anna Mathai, Annu Ullas, Anu Maria Antony, Nini Babu. Determinants of Tokophobia and Preferred Mode of Delivery among Antenatal Mothers – A Hospital Based Cross Sectional Study. A and V Pub InternationalJournal of Nursing and Medical Research. 2026; 5(1):27-3. doi: 10.52711/ijnmr.2026.07 Available on: https://ijnmronline.com/AbstractView.aspx?PID=2026-5-1-7
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