Aim: The purpose of this systematic literature review was to describe means to relieve fear of childbirth from the point of view of mothers during pregnancy. Data and methods: The material was searched from CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Medic, Melinda and Cochrane databases and by manual search from years 2008–2018. The material was limited to predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data consists of 22 studies, which were analyzed with inductive content analysis. Results: Fear of childbirth was relieved by birthing classes, that were based on different philosophies, which were traditional, mindfulness, natural birthing philosophy and pilates-based classes. Fear was also relieved by getting acquainted with the birthing facility in advance, cognitive-behavioral therapy, haptotherapy, psycho- education and prenatal care provided by a midwife. Also support given by close relatives and the mother’s own activity in preparing for childbirth helped with fear of childbirth. Conclusions: There are many kinds of means that are proven effective to relieve fear of childbirth, that should be offered to mothers according to their individual needs. Prenatal classes in the birthing facilities held by midwives play a central role in treating fearful mothers. Previous studies focus on interventions. Hence qualitative studies of mothers’ own means to relieve childbirth fear should be conducted.publishedVersionPeer reviewe
