The relationship between climate change anxiety levels and fertility awareness levels in a sample of women in Turkey: a cross-sectional study

This study aimed to examine the relationship between climate change anxiety and fertility awareness Among a sample of women in Turkey. A cross-sectional study was conducted, collecting online data from 1,054 women between May and August 2025. The sample predominantly consisted of married and highly educated women recruited via online platforms. Data were gathered using the Socio-demographic Data Form, the Climate Change Anxiety Scale, and the Fertility Awareness Scale. The majority of participants were aged 25–34 years (33.9%) and 35–44 years (31.1%). 44.2% of participants had a university degree or higher, and most were married (92.4%). The mean score on the Climate Change Anxiety Scale was 3.151, while the mean score on the Fertility Awareness Scale was 3.623. Higher fertility awareness scores were observed among women with fewer children (p = 0.005). Furthermore, women who expressed a clear desire to have children showed significantly greater awareness of fertility issues (p = 0.016). A significant positive correlation was found between climate change anxiety and Fertility Awareness Level (p = 0.000). This study reveals a significant positive relationship between climate change anxiety and Fertility Awareness Level. Comprehensive educational programs are recommended to address the causes and consequences of climate change and alleviate fertility-related concerns among women with similar sociodemographic characteristics.