missions
For Women Who Fear Pregnancy and Childbirth
By Moriah Reeves Lovett at Desiring God
· June 28, 2026
· 6 min read
Through working with dozens of newly married and engaged couples, my husband and I have noticed a new trend. It is well known that many young women choose to delay or forgo having children altogether — but often, this decision is driven not by a fear of lost autonomy but by a fear of pregnancy and b
Key takeaway It is well known that many young women choose to delay or forgo having children altogether — but often, this decision is driven not by a fear of lost autonomy but by a fear of pregnancy and birth, known as tokophobia.
Why this matters
The trend of tokophobia among young women highlights a critical need for Christian ministries and charities to address the emotional and spiritual well-being of women in their childbearing years. As social media amplifies fears and anxieties surrounding pregnancy and childbirth, faith-based organizations can play a vital role in providing balanced perspectives and biblical guidance. By sharing personal testimonies and statistical evidence of the rewards of motherhood, these organizations can help counteract the negative narratives that often dominate online platforms. Furthermore, Christian charities can support women's health initiatives and provide resources for those struggling with anxiety and fear, ultimately empowering them to make informed decisions that align with their faith and values. As the biblical call to step into uncertain situations with faith is emphasized, Christian ministries can offer a unique framework for women to reframe their fears and approach pregnancy and motherhood with a sense of purpose and trust in God's sovereignty.
About this story
Original reporting by Desiring God . Christgiving surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
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Category: missions ·
Published: June 28, 2026 ·
Source: Desiring God ·
Reading time: 6 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Through working with dozens of newly married and engaged couples, my husband and I have noticed a new trend. It is well known that many young women choose to delay or forgo having children altogether — but often, this decision is driven not by a fear of lost autonomy but by a fear of pregnancy and b
When was this published? This article was first published on June 28, 2026 by Desiring God and curated for Christgiving readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Moriah Reeves Lovett at Desiring God. To learn more about how Christgiving selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more missions coverage from Christgiving, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .