Objective
To describe the expectations concerning imminent childbirth before and after 8 weeks of internet‐based cognitive behavioural therapy (ICBT) among nulliparous pregnant women with severe fear of childbirth.
Design
Qualitative study of nulliparous pregnant women's narratives before and after CBT.
Setting
The first ICBT programme for treating severe fear of childbirth.
Sample
Fifteen nulliparous pregnant Swedish women with severe fear of childbirth participating in an ICBT self‐help programme.
Methods
Semi‐structured open‐ended questions over the internet before and after 8 weeks of ICBT. The data were analysed using thematic analysis.
Main outcome measures
The participants’ narratives pertaining to five different situations during labour and delivery before and after ICBT.
Results
After therapy, participants described a more realistic attitude towards imminent childbirth, more self‐confidence and more active coping strategies. They perceived their partners and the staff as more supportive. They were more aware of the approaching meeting with their baby when giving birth.
Conclusions
Following the ICBT programme, participants changed their attitude towards imminent childbirth from negative to more positive. This was manifested in positive and more realistic expectations regarding themselves, their partner and the staff that would look after them.