Knowledge, Fear, and Anxiety Levels Among Pregnant Women During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate pregnant women’s knowledge, fear, and anxiety levels during the coronavirus outbreak. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 170 pregnant women between May 20 and July 10, 2020. Data collection form for demographics and obstetric details, questionnaire on knowledge, attitudes, and practice toward COVID-19, and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-I were used. The vast majority of pregnant women were afraid of being infected with the COVID-19 and causing mother-to-baby transmission. A positive correlation was found between fear of coronavirus transmission and the level of anxiety (p < .05). Risk perceptions regarding COVID-19 have affected the anxiety and knowledge levels of pregnant women. Based on the findings, knowledge levels, concerns, and fears about the risk of COVID-19 exposure have implications on the anxiety levels of pregnant women. Pregnant women experienced high stress and anxiety levels due to increased risk of COVID-19 transmission during face-to-face antenatal visits.