Factors associated with fear of childbirth among pregnant adolescents in Northeastern Thailand: A cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION: Fear of childbirth (FOC) is a significant psychological concern among pregnant adolescents, who often experience unplanned pregnancies and limited preparedness for childbirth. This study aimed to examine the level of FOC and identify its psychosocial correlates among pregnant adolescents in Northeastern Thailand. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 147 pregnant adolescents attending antenatal care clinics. Data were collected using validated questionnaires assessing fear of childbirth, anxiety, self-esteem, childbirth self-efficacy, marital relationship, and social support. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation, and multiple linear regression analyses were performed. RESULTS: Participants reported a moderate level of FOC (mean=1.62, SD=0.855). Correlation analysis indicated that anxiety was positively associated with FOC, while self-esteem, childbirth self-efficacy, marital relationship, and social support were negatively associated. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that self-esteem (β=0.243, p=0.020) and social support (β= -0.288, p=0.022) were significantly associated with FOC. The model explained 59% of the variance (R2=0.59). CONCLUSIONS: FOC among pregnant adolescents is associated with key psychosocial factors, particularly self-esteem and social support. Strengthening psychological resilience and supportive environments may help reduce childbirth fear and improve maternal outcomes.