Domestic violence in pregnancy: prevalence and characteristics of the pregnant woman

Abstract

Aims and objectives

To determine the prevalence of domestic violence (physical, psychological or sexual) during pregnancy and to characterise these women.

Background

Pregnant women are not immune to domestic violence and therefore may be subject to any form of physical, psychological or sexual violence by partners. Health professionals’ knowledge and awareness are important in the identification and intervention of pregnant women who experience domestic violence.

Methods

Quantitative, descriptive, correlational study, using a nonprobabilistic convenience sample consisting of a total of 852 postpartum women, of whom 370 were experiencing domestic violence according to the criteria adopted through the modified scale of prevalence, applied between February–June 2012 in two Portuguese public health institutions. Authorisation was given by the Ethics Committees/Administration Councils of both institutions involved and the National Committee of Data Protection.

Results

The prevalence of DV during pregnancy was 43·4% (physical violence – 21·9%; psychological violence – 43·2%; and sexual violence – 19·6%). These women had the following profile: immigrant (OR = 5·70; IC95% 3·32–9·78), non‐Caucasian (OR = 6·27; IC95% 3·76–10·46), single/divorced/widowed (OR = 2·28; IC95% 1·70–3·05), academic qualifications up to year 9 (OR = 4·94; IC95% 3·31–7·37); between 10–12 years of schooling (OR = 2·36; IC95% 1·70–3·29); unemployed (OR = 2·01; IC95% 1·50–2·69); and with a monthly income <1000 euros (OR = 1·90; IC95% 1·44–2·50). Through logistic regression, the following protective factors have been identified: nationality (Portuguese), race (Caucasian) and place of residence (city).

Conclusions

Almost half of the sample had experienced some form of domestic violence. This is associated with certain sociodemographic factors identified in the study. Psychological violence was the most prevalent during pregnancy.

Relevance to clinical practice

Knowledge of the prevalence and characteristics of pregnant women who experience domestic violence is of paramount importance in planning appropriate strategies for their needs during pregnancy. Results indicate the need for nurses to intervene when warning signs of domestic violence against pregnant women are detected.