The Relationship between the Fear of Childbirth and Anxiety during the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Introduction. The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which emerged in Wuhan, China, in late 2019, has affected the whole world. Pregnant women who are expected to give birth during this period are one of the most important groups affected by these processes. The aim of this study was to identify the relationship between the fear of childbirth and anxiety among pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods. The cross-sectional study was conducted on 181 pregnant women in a city in the eastern region of Turkey between July and November 2020. Results. Mid-level fear of childbirth was experienced by 44.8% of pregnant women. A positive correlation was found between the average anxiety score of pregnant women and childbirth fear. Conclusions. The findings of the study will guide healthcare professionals in finding applicable solutions to the problems experienced by pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic period.