This archive report was first published on 10 October 2019.
October 10, 2019, marked a significant moment for many women, but for some, the joy of pregnancy can be overshadowed by fear. According to Dr Margaret Kagwe, a Counselling Psychologist, tokophobia can manifest in various ways, making the otherwise happy occurrence a nightmare.
Dr Kagwe emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and supporting individuals who experience tokophobia. 'No matter the cause, every fear experienced by a person is founded,' she says. 'It would not be appropriate to dismiss someone's feeling or even use it against him or her.'
Some women may fear gaining weight, worry about morning sickness, or be concerned about eating disorders during pregnancy. To address these fears, it's essential to establish the root cause and provide accurate information. Dr Kagwe suggests consulting a healthcare provider to understand the process and potential complications.
Family support, particularly from the spouse, plays a crucial role in helping the mother overcome tokophobia. Dr Kagwe stresses that 'the emotional state of the mother is key to healthy development of the unborn child.' The spouse should take the phobia seriously and seek professional help to ensure the mother is well enough to go through the process by the time of childbirth.
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