Poll: Top Worries of Moms-to-Be Revealed

The Scoop

Will I make it to the hospital in time? Will I lose the baby weight? Ever wonder how many other women share your same pregnancy worries? A new poll released December 9, 2009, from the March of Dimes delves into the top concerns of expectant moms, with some surprising—and not so surprising—results. The number one worry, according to the survey of more than 1,000 women: birth defects/developmental problems. More than 78 percent said they were worried their child would be born with some kind of health problem.

Stress was moms' second fear, with 74 percent answering that they were concerned if stress in their life would harm their baby's health. Preterm birth was a close third with 71 percent saying they were worried their baby would be born too soon.

Your Pregnancy

Other pregnancy panic buttons? Seventy percent feared labor pains, 60 percent worried they wouldn't be able to breastfeed successfully, 59 percent worried about losing weight after pregnancy, and 55 percent were worried that they wouldn't get to the hospital on time. Sushi and fish was the number one food concern, with 61 percent concerned about safe/unsafe choices. Survey results were discussed by OB/GYNs attending a recent meeting of the March of Dimes National Communications Advisory Council.