The Impact of Fear on Birth and the Importance of Reducing It

We often get asked, what role does fear take in birth? And it is a really good question! Though you may not think it, fear around birth can play a huge part in how your birth story unfolds. The good news is, with support during a Hypnobirthing course, you can acknowledge fears, and work to replace those fears with a more positive view to birth.

“Changing the way you view birth, changes the way you birth” Dr Grantly Dick Read

The Fear-Tension-Pain Cycle is a concept in childbirth that explains how fear can lead to increased pain during labour. It was first introduced by Dr. Grantly Dick-Read, a British obstetrician, in the early 20th century. His research suggested that a birthing persons emotional state during labour has a direct impact on how much pain they experience. How you ask?

1. Fear → When a birthing person feels fear or anxiety about labour, her body releases stress hormones like adrenaline.

2. Tension → Fear causes the muscles (especially in the uterus and cervix) to tighten instead of relaxing, making surges more painful.

3. Pain → Increased tension leads to more pain, which in turn reinforces the fear, keeping the cycle going.

   
   

Let’s talk about Adrenaline, and why we prefer to keep it at bay during labour.

During labour your body releases Oxytocin (The hormone of love) to support your surges and to help your cervix dilate. Oxytocin is essential for thinning and opening the cervix, allowing baby to move down into the birth canal and preparing for birth. If for any reason, Adrenaline makes an appearance during labour, the Oxytocin may reduce because of this and may prevent your surges progressing or could stop them all together. This goes back to ancient times when a woman giving birth in the wild might encounter danger. In such situations, adrenaline would kick in, halting surges and allowing her to move to a safer location before continuing labour. So, there is a spectacular reason for Adrenaline having a rightful place in birth. However, in most cases, we want the main focus to be on promoting the release of Oxytocin.

How Can You Promote The Positive Release Of Oxytocin

• Trying to stay calm & confident. (I know this sounds impossible, with Hypnobirthing techniques, it is absolutely possible)

• Try to avoid anyone disturbing your birth environment unnecessarily.

• If you can, try to stay upright – when the pressure of the baby is felt on the cervix this can promote the release of Oxytocin and bring on surges.

• Nipple or clitoris stimulation before birth.

• Low lighting & low noise if possible.

• A blanket for your shoulder to keep you warm and cosy.

• Hugs & support from loved ones.  

Breaking The Fear – Tension Pain Cycle

Education & Preparation Understanding the birthing process can reduce fear.

Breathing & Relaxation Techniques Practices like Hypnobirthing, deep breathing, and meditation can help relax muscles.

Support System Having a supportive birth partner, doula, or medical team can ease anxiety.

Movement & Positioning  Staying mobile and changing positions can help the body work with labour instead of against it.

Pain Relief Options  Whether natural (water birth, massage) or medical (epidural), pain management can help reduce tension.

The beauty of a Hypnobirthing course is that we cover all this and more! Reducing fear around birth is one of my top priorities because it lays the foundation for a more positive and empowering labour experience. If the thought of birth feels overwhelming, know that your feelings are completely valid. But also know that things can be different. By shifting your mindset and changing the narrative around birth, you can step into labour feeling confident, prepared, and ready to handle anything—with your Hypnobirthing toolkit by your side.

Alice x