Migration and fetal health anxiety with related variables in Türkiye: A cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Migration status can influence pregnancy through sociocultural and healthcare dynamics. Fetal health anxiety refers to concerns about the fetus's well-being. This study aimed to compare fetal health anxiety and sociodemographic and obstetric factors between migrant and non-migrant pregnant individuals. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2024 and February 2025 at two hospitals in Eskişehir, Türkiye, among pregnant individuals attending antenatal care. Participants were recruited via convenience sampling and completed a questionnaire on sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics, including the Fetal Health Anxiety Inventory. Results A total of 1,196 participants (mean age±SD:28.6±5.7) were included; 110 (9.1%) were migrants. Migrants had a lower mean age (p = 0.030), had lower education levels (p < 0.001), were more often in first trimester (p = 0.003), had a higher number of pregnancies (p < 0.001), more often had previous birth (p = 0.018), had fewer planned pregnancies (p < 0.001), and lower participation in prenatal classes (p = 0.010) than non-migrants. No significant differences were observed in employment, income, or previous birth mode. Subgroup analyses showed that, compared to non-migrants, migrants had lower fetal health anxiety scores among those with previous pregnancy (p = 0.020) and birth experience (p = 0.036), no significant differences were found among first-time pregnancies or those with no birth history. Conclusions Migrants differed from non-migrants in key sociodemographic and obstetric factors, including fewer planned pregnancies, lower overall and prenatal education, and higher numbers of pregnancies and deliveries. Among those with previous pregnancy or birth, fetal health anxiety was lower in migrants. These findings support inclusive perinatal care and improved antenatal education access. Key messages • Findings support the need to consider both migration background and obstetric history in antenatal care. • Providing pregnancy, birth, and postpartum education in migrants’ own languages is essential.