The psychological impacts of climate change on pregnant women in Türkiye

Background: Climate change poses serious risks to both physical and mental health. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable, as the stress and anxiety associated with this period may be intensified by climate-related challenges, potentially affecting maternal well-being and pregnancy outcomes. Aim: This study was conducted to determine the repercussions of climate change on the mental health of pregnant women. Methods: This study utilized a descriptive qualitative design. The data were collected by holding individual semi-structured interviews with pregnant women (n = 17). Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Results: The main themes of this study were ‘anxiety and insecurity about the future,’ ‘psychological burdens caused by climate change,’ ‘coping with psychological burdens associated with the impact of climate change,’ and ‘expectations from healthcare professionals’. The main themes consist of six sub-themes: ‘concerns about the future of children,’ ‘uncertainty about the future,’ ‘climate anxiety and stress,’ ‘sense of ecological loss and sadness,’ ‘avoidance,’ and ‘spiritual practices’. Conclusion: Climate change adversely affects the quality of life of pregnant women and imposes a significant burden on their mental health. Healthcare professionals should integrate climate-related awareness and coping strategies into their practice and promote broader public awareness. Such efforts can contribute to policies that safeguard the rights of pregnant women and their families to live in a healthy and sustainable environment.