Iya Villania Fears Childbirth Even After 5 Kids, Here's Why

Iya Villania and her husband, Drew Arellano, welcomed their fifth child, Anya Love, on February 11 at 10:52 AM.

Despite her quirky Instagram reels and continuing to work even at 38 weeks, once again, the TV host—who will be turning 39 this year—debunked perceptions that pregnancy and childbirth were easy for her.

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A post shared by Iya Villania-Arellano (@iyavillania)

Iya Villania bares fear of childbirth

Over the years, Iya has kept her followers updated on social media about her parenthood milestones, whether through photo posts or stories. 

On February 12, the new mother of five shared an Instagram post expressing relief and gratitude after her successful delivery of Baby Anya. All of Iya's children were born via normal delivery.

"If you only knew how much I fear delivery. If you know of all the possibilities during delivery then you too would understand." —Iya Villania Arellano

She posted a photo taken by Drew, of her and her younger children, Astro and Alana, prior to giving birth. For context, she explained she was running on endorphins mixed with exhaustion and an overwheling sense of relief and gratitude.

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A post shared by Iya Villania-Arellano (@iyavillania)

"I remember savoring this moment with fear in my heart not knowing how delivery might unfold. I'm not a negative person but I couldn't help but fear the possibility of not making it back home to these guys or of any other possible misfortune," she wrote.

She continued, "If you only knew how much I fear delivery. If you know of all the possibilities during delivery then you too would understand."

Iya also mentioned that her mother had her fair share of fears about the delivery process.

"To be on the other side of it already, seeing and holding Anya and knowing we’ll be reunited with her very excited siblings soon brings me so much relief and gratitude," Iya said. "God truly has been so gracious and faithful and I can only hope that I live a life that will honor Him."

^{Iya shared this photo on February 10, after giving birth to Anya}

She vowed never to take these blessings for granted, saying she sees God's grace reflected in each of her children's faces.

Studies: Pregnancy, labor, and delivery complications come with any age

Last year, Iya shared in an interview that their fifth pregnancy wasn't planned. Given her age, it was already considered high-risk. "I can't deny that even as I work out, there are fears that creep into my head, your body might take things differently, it's gonna be harder," she shared in an interview with Nelson Canlas.

Studies show that regardless of a pregnant woman's age, there is always a risk of labor and delivery complications. It is essential for women to be aware of these risks so they can work closely with their doctors, monitor symptoms, and ensure the best possible outcome for both mother and baby.

• Pregnant women aged 11–18 face higher risks of complications compared to those aged 25–29. Complications included preterm delivery, chorioamnionitis, endometritis, and mild preeclampsia.
• Pregnant women aged 15–19 have greater odds of severe preeclampsia, eclampsia, postpartum hemorrhage, poor fetal growth, and fetal distress.
• Pregnant women aged 35 and higher face a higher likelihood of preterm delivery, hypertension, superimposed preeclampsia, severe preeclampsia, and decreased risk for chorioamnionitis.
• Women aged 40 and above have increased risk for mild preeclampsia, fetal distress, and poor fetal growth.

Another study found that delivery complications—including stillbirth, cesarean delivery, and maternal mortality—increase with advanced maternal age. The risk ratios for maternal mortality are 3.18 for women over 40, 11.60 for those over 45, and 42.76 for those over 50. These findings highlight the importance of counseling women with advanced maternal age regarding their pregnancy risks.

Some of the common complications during childbirth may include stalled labor or labor that does not progress, perineal tears, umbilical cord issues, abnormal baby heart rate, early water breaking, perinatal asphyxia, shoulder dystocia, and excessive bleeding. These complications may require interventions such as medications, episiotomy, or cesarean delivery to ensure the safety of both the mother and baby.

In a 2020 report by United Nation agencies, a woman dies during pregnancy or childbirth every two minutes. While lowering maternal deaths remains one of the pressing health challenges worldwide, ensuring that a pregnant woman has access to healthcare is important. 

Moms applaud Iya for sharing her fears, strength

As one comment on a social post about Iya's delivery fears reads, "Only those who have experienced childbirth can truly understand what it feels like. While welcoming a new baby into the world is a beautiful and joyous experience, the journey of pregnancy and childbirth is filled with uncertainties, challenges, and fears that only those who have been through it can fully comprehend."

Another applauded Iya for sharing her story: "Stranger here who is also about to give birth to my fourth child this month. Thank you for sharing this. The fear of not making it back alive is so real! I pray about it a lot now that I will give birth anytime soon."

While pregnancy and childbirth are uncertain, Iya's journey reminds us of mothers' strength and resilience, as well as the importance of proper prenatal care and faith. 

At home, Iya's other children cannot help but share their love and care for their newest family member.

^{Alana and Anya}

^{Astro and Anya}

You're an amazing and strong mama, Iya! Congratulations again. We are excited to know more about your birth story soon.

Are you pregnant? Join the Smart Parenting Village Facebook group if you need a support system.