Effect of Domestic Violence on Pregnancy Outcomes among Rural and Urban Women

Abstract

Background: Domestic violence against women during pregnancy is linked to poor outcome of pregnancy and a widespread global health problem with many negative consequences. Screening is effective in detecting domestic violence, and increases the rate of referrals to community resources, resulting in improved quality of life and fewer violence-related injuries. The aim of the study: To identify the effect of domestic violence on pregnancy outcomes among rural and urban women. Design: A descriptive correlational design was utilized for the study. Setting: this study was conducted at maternal and child health centers for antenatal care (MCH Center) at Shebin El-kom. Sample: A purposive sample of 240 pregnant women were recruited in the study. Tools: Four tools were developed and used; 1) A structured interviewing questionnaire, 2) Hurting, Insulting and Threatening with harm screening tool (HITS); 3) A domestic violence screening scale 4) Edinburgh postnatal depression scale. Results: The proportion of rural women who had experienced physical violence was significantly higher than that of the urban women (41.7% versus 24.2%, respectively; P<0.05). Sexual violence was significantly higher among urban women than rural women (31.7% versus 11.6%, respectively; P<0.05).There were no statistically significant differences in pregnancy outcomes among rural and urban women related to domestic violence. Conclusion: Women are exposed to different forms of domestic violence during pregnancy. These forms of violence have an impact on the pregnancy outcomes such as abortions, low-birth weight, pre-term delivery, and postpartum depression among others. Recommendations: based on the results of the present study we need to design education program for both the men and women regarding the effect of domestic violence on pregnancy outcomes.