The Truth About Your Top Pregnancy Fears
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Content warning: This article discusses pregnancy loss and stillbirth.
Pregnancy is a time of profound joy and profound worry in near equal measure. Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned pro, it's normal for your mind to race through dozens of “what-ifs.” A 2021 study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that nearly 80% of pregnant people reported at least one major fear related to their pregnancy, with worries ranging from miscarriage and birth defects to labor complications and the postpartum period.
But here’s the truth: Most pregnancy worries are either very unlikely to happen or totally manageable with the right care. We’re here to walk you through the most common pregnancy fears and offer reassuring facts—backed by science—to help you breathe a little easier.
Fear #1: Miscarriage
The worry: “What if I lose the baby early on?”
The facts: This is one of the most common fears in early pregnancy. While miscarriages are sadly a part of the reproductive journey for many (an estimated 10% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage(, the vast majority happen in the first trimester—often before a person even realizes they’re pregnant.
Once a heartbeat is detected (usually by 6 to 8 weeks), the risk of miscarriage drops significantly, especially in low-risk pregnancies. And after the first trimester the risk drops to 1-5%.
Though nothing can replace a long hoped-for pregnancy, you may also take heart knowing that most people who experience pregnancy loss go on to have healthy pregnancies later.
Fear #2: Birth Defects
The worry: “What if something is wrong with my baby?”
The facts: About 3% of babies are born with a birth defect, but what that means varies wildly—and keep in mind that “birth defect” is a medical term that refers to a range of health conditions that start before birth. It does not mean a person is “defective!”
Most birth defects are mild and treatable, and many don’t impact long-term health. Preventive steps—like taking folic acid, avoiding alcohol and harmful substances, and managing diabetes—can significantly reduce risk.
Fear #3: Stillbirth
The worry: “What if my baby dies before birth?”
The facts: Stillbirth (the loss of a baby at 20 weeks or later) is absolutely heartbreaking—but rare. In the U.S., it affects about 1 in 175 births.
Most pregnancies progress without issue, especially with regular prenatal care. Staying on top of prenatal appointments helps providers monitor for conditions that may increase risk, such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or fetal growth restriction. Tracking your baby's movements in the third trimester (often referred to as “kick counts”) is another way to monitor wellbeing. If you notice a decrease in fetal movement, don’t wait—contact your provider right away.
Fear #4: Going into Labor Too Early
The worry: “What if I go into labor too early?”
The facts: About 10% of babies in the U.S. are born preterm (before 37 weeks). Risk factors include carrying multiples, previous preterm birth, and certain infections.
Though preterm labor can come with some serious risks, most preemies—especially those born after 34 weeks—thrive with modern neonatal care. If you're at increased risk, your provider may offer progesterone therapy, cervical monitoring, or other interventions. Learn more about preterm labor.
Fear #5: Labor Pain
The worry: “What if I can’t handle the pain of childbirth?”
The facts: Labor is intense—no sugar-coating it. But you’re not without support…or options!
Pain relief methods during labor include epidurals, IV medications, nitrous oxide, and non-medical approaches like massage and breathing techniques. (Related: Check out these science-backed labor relaxation tips!) If you want an epidural, you can likely have one. If you’d prefer an unmedicated birth, your provider can support you with non-pharmaceutical tools. Either way, the care team is there to ensure you’re as comfortable and supported as possible. You get to choose the path that’s right for you!
Fear #6: Emergency C-Section
The worry: “What if things don’t go as planned and I need a C-section?”
The facts: About 1 in 3 U.S. births are by cesarean.
A c-section might not be what you envisioned, but it’s a safe and often life-saving procedure. Thanks to modern surgical techniques and infection control, the risks are low and recovery is well supported. Discussing your birth plan with your provider can help prepare you emotionally and physically for all possibilities.
Fear #7: Postpartum Depression
The worry: “What if I don’t feel like myself after giving birth?”
The facts: An estimated 1 in 5 moms and 1 in 10 dads struggle with mental health and about 80% of parents suffer from baby blues. But in addition to being prevalent, mental health issues are treatable.
Screening during and after pregnancy helps identify those at risk. Therapy, medication, and community support can make a huge difference. And being vigilant about your mental health can serve you. Take a look at Happiest Baby’s Mental Wellness Toolkit. It has exercises you can do before pregnancy to identify risk factors and symptoms and prepare yourself emotionally for new parenthood.
Fear #8: Eating Something That’ll Harm Baby
The worry: “What if I accidentally eat the wrong food?”
The facts: Certain foods, like raw fish, deli meats, and unpasteurized cheeses, can increase the risk of listeria or other foodborne illnesses, which can be dangerous during pregnancy.
That said, it’s rare to get sick from a one-time slip, especially if the food was fresh and properly stored. Staying mindful of food safety guidelines and washing produce can go a long way. If you’re ever unsure, call your provider—they’re there to help, not judge. (Check out our guide to foods to avoid during pregnancy!)
Fear #9: Morning Sickness Impacting Baby’s Health
The worry: “I can’t keep anything down—how is my baby getting nutrients?”
The facts: Nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy (aka morning sickness) are common and often a sign of rising pregnancy hormones. Most babies still grow and develop normally despite these symptoms.
Even if you’re only keeping down crackers and water, your body prioritizes nutrients for your baby. If symptoms become severe (e.g., if you can’t keep fluids down for 24+ hours), it could be hyperemesis gravidarum—a condition that needs medical care but is treatable.
Fear #10: Pooping During Delivery
The worry: “What if I poop on the table?”
The facts: Okay, unlike a lot of fears on this list, this one is super common. In fact, pooping during delivery is so run-of-the-mill that your provider or nurse won’t bat an eye!
Pushing a baby out often means pushing with the same muscles used during a bowel movement. Your care team expects this and handles it discreetly. You’ll be far too focused on birthing your babe to worry about modesty, and that’s exactly how it should be!
Fear #11: Tearing or Needing an Episiotomy
The worry: “What if I tear badly—or need stitches?”
The facts: Around 9 out of 10 women experience some kind of perineal trauma post-birth, and about 60 to 70% of these require stitches. However, most are minor (first- or second-degree) and heal quickly!
Your provider will coach you on how to push slowly and safely. Warm compresses, perineal massage, and upright labor positions can help reduce tearing risk. Episiotomies (surgical cuts) are less common now and only used when absolutely necessary.
Fear #12: Not Knowing What to Do
The worry: “I’m going to mess everything up.”
The facts: Parenthood doesn’t come with an instruction manual—and that’s okay. The learning curve is real, but it’s one you’re more than capable of navigating.
Nobody starts out knowing it all. Your instincts will kick in, and support systems (partner, pediatrician, friends, apps!) can guide you.
Final Thoughts
Pregnancy is full of unknowns—but that doesn’t mean you’re powerless. Seeking answers from trustworthy sources and surrounding yourself with reliable care can help calm those swirling thoughts. Take a deep breath...and remember: Fear may visit, but it doesn’t have to move in.
More on Pregnancy:
- First Trimester Symptoms and Solutions
- Second Trimester Symptoms and Solutions
- Third Trimester Symptoms and Solutions
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REFERENCES
- Parenting Fears and Concerns during Pregnancy: A Qualitative Survey, Nursing Reports, Nov 2021
- Understanding Care-Seeking and Subsequent Pregnancy Loss in the Second Trimester of Pregnancy − A Multicentre Audit, European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Feb 2025
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Early Pregnancy Loss
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: About Birth Defects
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Birth Defect Prevention
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: About Stillbirth
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Preterm Birth
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Preterm Labor and Birth
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Medications for Pain Relief During Labor and Delivery
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Births—Method of Delivery
- Postpartum Support International: Perinatal Mental Health
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: About Listeria
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Morning Sickness—Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy
- Perineal Lacerations, StatPearls, Jan 2025
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Postpartum Pain Management
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: What Is an Episiotomy