The Relationship Between Cyberchondria, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, and Fear of Childbirth Among Pregnant Women

Abstract Background This study aimed to examine the relationship between cyberchondria, depression, anxiety, stress, and fear of childbirth among pregnant women. Methods This descriptive and correlational study was conducted between January 1 and March 31, 2025, at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Outpatient Clinic of a university health practice and research hospital in Turkey. Data were collected using a Descriptive Information Form, the Cyberchondria Severity Scale (CSS), the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), and the Birth Attitude Scale (BAS). Results The mean CSS score was 28.86 ± 8.84. The mean DASS-21 total score was 33.45 ± 9.89, with subscale mean scores of 13.30 ± 4.61 for depression, 13.48 ± 5.81 for anxiety, and 13.61 ± 4.91 for stress. The mean BAS score was 35.56 ± 11.54. Pearson correlation analysis revealed significant and positive associations between cyberchondria severity and all DASS-21 subdimensions, as well as fear of childbirth. Cyberchondria severity was strongly correlated with depression (r = .664, p < .001), anxiety (r = .775, p < .001), and stress (r = .781, p < .001). The findings suggest that higher levels of cyberchondria and stress among pregnant women experiencing fear of childbirth are associated with increased negative expectations regarding childbirth, which may trigger excessive online health information seeking. Conclusion Cyberchondria during pregnancy should therefore be considered not only an information-seeking behavior but also a maladaptive coping strategy related to anxiety regulation. Addressing cyberchondria and psychological distress in prenatal care may help reduce fear of childbirth and improve maternal mental well-being.