Prevalence and complications of physical violence during pregnancy

Objectives: To assess the incidence of self-reported physical violence in pregnancy and describe the association with foeto-maternal complications and birth outcome. Method: Seven thousand one hundred and five pregnant women over a 3 year period were assessed for self-reported physical violence. Maternal ante-natal hospitalization, low birth weight and pre-term delivery. Odd ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated to measure association between physical violence, maternal morbidity and birth outcome. Results: The prevalence of physical violence was 21%. Women who reported/experienced physical violence, were more likely to be hospitalized ante-natally for maternal complications such as trauma due to blows/kicks on the pregnant abdomen, abruptio-placenta, pre-term labor and kidney infections. There was a positive association between physical violence during pregnancy and cesarean section, abruptio-placenta, fetal distress, and pre-maturity. Conclusion: Physical violence during pregnancy is common and is associated with adverse materno-fetal outcome.