Women may experience a variety of fears in association with pregnancy and childbirth. Fear can cause significant problem during childbirth and post partum. Fear has been associated with more reported pain in childbirth a longer first and second stage of labor and dissatisfaction with the childbirth experience.

The purpose of this study was to describe the fear and causes associated with pregnancy and childbirth among Kurdish women in Iran.

Twenty-two Kurdish pregnant women in Sanandaj (the capital of Kurdistan province in the West of Iran) were interviewed during third trimester of their pregnancy. A qualitative design was chosen and grounded theory was used for data analysis.

All women expressed at least some fears associated with pregnancy and/or childbirth. Women's fears were related to baby's well-being, process and procedure during labor and childbirth, family life, criticism of husband's family, and attitudes of hospital personnel. The reasons for their fears included: previous negative experiences, knowledge, maternity environment and hospital personnel, baby gender and financial situation.

The findings suggest that childbirth education and health care services requiring more attention and exploration. The findings also highlight the need for a careful review of the existing labor and delivery units and procedures. Midwives need further training in how to meet and support pregnant women with fear related to pregnancy and childbirth.