The Relationship Between Vaccine Hesitation in Pregnancy and Cyberchondria Level: A Cross-Sectional Study in Eastern Türkiye

Authors : Nesrullah Ayşin, Samet Koltaş, Emine Kurt Can
Pages : 253-260
Doi:10.48071/sbuhemsirelik.1735830
View : 140 | Download : 266
Publication Date : 2025-12-17
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :Introduction: Vaccination is an effective preventive measure, yet vaccine hesitancy remains a major public health problem. Meanwhile, cyberchondria, defined as excessive and anxiety-provoking online health information seeking, is increasingly common and may influence vaccination decisions during pregnancy. Aim: This study aimed to examine the relationship between vaccine hesitancy and cyberchondria levels among pregnant women. Method: A descriptive and cross-sectional design was used. The study was conducted between February and May 2025 with 234 pregnant women residing in rural areas of eastern Türkiye and receiving antenatal care at Family Health Centers. Data were collected face-to-face using the Pregnancy Diagnosis Form, Vaccine Hesitation Scale (VHS), and Cyberchondria Severity Scale (CSS). Analyses included descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and linear regression (p < 0.05). Results: The mean VHS score was 63.73 ± 9.90, while the mean CSS score was 41.46 ± 5.37. A significant positive correlation was found between VHS and CSS (r = 0.707, p < 0.001), with cyberchondria explaining 49.8% of the variance in vaccine hesitancy. Both VHS and CSS scores were significantly higher among women with lower education levels and among those with concerns about vaccine side effects, fetal harm, and vaccine content (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Findings indicate that increased cyberchondria levels significantly elevate vaccine hesitancy in pregnant women. Interventions to improve digital health literacy and provide reliable information are essential. Public health nurses should play a significant role in this process by providing education and guidance to pregnant women.
Keywords : Aşı tereddütü, gebelik, hemşirelik, siberkondri

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