Qualitative exploration of fear of childbirth and preferences for mode of birth among Japanese primiparas.

Antenatal fear of childbirth (FOC) is associated with negative effects, such as postnatal traumatic symptoms. As the birth-related culture of East Asian countries differs from that in Western countries, the aim of the present qualitative, descriptive study was to explore FOC, perceptions for Caesarean section (CS), and obstetric analgesia (OA) among Japanese primiparas. The qualitative, descriptive study included focus group interviews with 11 primiparous women, which were conducted in a birth house and a maternity hospital in a metropolitan area of Japan in 2013. As a result, seven categories emerged from the analysis: Maternal and child risk, pain, losing control, uncertainty, prolonged labor, poor family support and loneliness before hospitalization. All participants denied having a preference for CS birth due to fear. Opposing values of OA were identified in women who chose OA and those who did not. In conclusion, it is necessary to increase clinical awareness that the objects of fear are diverse. Furthermore, diverse values regarding OA should be understood and equally respected by health-care professionals.