The Relationship Between Earthquake Fear and Fear of Childbirth During Pregnancy: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of earthquake anxiety on the birth fear in pregnant women. This was conducted through assessing the relationship between earthquake anxiety and birth expectations using the Wijma Birth Expectancy/Experience Scale (W-DEQ A) among pregnant women attending a university hospital's obstetrics clinic. Methods: This cross-sectional, analytical study included a sample of 212 pregnant women who applied to the obstetrics clinic between 01/09/2024 and 01/12/2024. Data were collected using a Personal Information Form, the Earthquake Anxiety Scale, and the Wijma Birth Expectancy/Experience Scale (W-DEQ A). Statistical analyses were performed to explore the relationship between demographic variables and psychological measures. Results: A significant difference was found between birth fear and variables such as education level, marital status, and whether the individual experienced any loss due to the earthquake (p<0.05). Additionally, a significant difference was found between previous birth type, trimester, planned delivery method, number of children, and earthquake anxiety levels (p<0.05). Women who had experienced loss due to the earthquake showed significantly higher levels of both birth fear and earthquake anxiety (p<0.05). A strong positive relationship was observed between earthquake anxiety and birth fear (p<0.05). Conclusion: The study demonstrated a significant positive relationship between earthquake anxiety and birth fear among pregnant women. Elevated anxiety levels were found to be an important factor contributing to increased birth fear. High psychological stress during pregnancy may exacerbate anxiety related to childbirth, making the birth experience more challenging. Thus, it is crucial for midwifery practice to consider anxiety levels in pregnant women and to implement strategies such as psychological support, relaxation techniques, and reassuring communication to reduce birth fear.