Fear of giving birth is not a failure of nerve, and nothing to be ashamed of. For many women and birthing people, that anxiety becomes overwhelming — a deep, persistent dread that colours every week of pregnancy and makes labour feel impossible. This fear has a name: tokophobia. It is real, it is recognised, and it can be faced. This book walks you through it step by step: understanding where the fear comes from, telling your midwife or doctor without shame, and building a birth plan that honours what you actually need. You will learn about the support that helps, the techniques that steady you, and what truly happens on the day — so the unknown has fewer places to hide. This book never tries to talk you out of your fear, and never tells you how to give birth. It helps you find safe, caring options that work for you and your baby. Written by a pregnancy and maternity writer, Tokophobia offers warmth, honesty and practical guidance, with calm, clear advice on when to seek urgent help. Fear is real. So is hope. Part of The Pregnancy Companion Library.