The prevalence of domestic violence in pregnant women.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the prevalence of domestic violence in a population of pregnant women.


METHODS
Questionnaire survey.


METHODS
Antenatal booking clinic in a north of England hospital.


METHODS
Five hundred consecutive women were included.


METHODS
Anonymous confidential questionnaire to women who were not accompanied by their partners.


METHODS
Disclosure of a past history of physical, emotional or sexual abuse.


RESULTS
Four hundred and seventy-five questionnaires were returned (95% response rate). The prevalence of domestic violence was 17%. Domestic violence was highest in the age group 26-30 years and boyfriends were the main perpetrators. Punching and slapping were the most common pattern of violence, and 10% of women experiencing domestic violence had had forced sexual activity.


CONCLUSIONS
The prevalence of domestic violence in a cohort of pregnant women in the north of England was 17%. Consideration should be given for routine screening for domestic violence in pregnancy to institute effective intervention strategies.
Johnson
J K
JK
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hull Maternity Hospital, UK.
Haider
F
F
Ellis
K
K
Hay
D M
DM
Lindow
S W
SW
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D015331:Cohort Studies; D017579:Domestic Violence / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D004739:England / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011295:Prenatal Care; D015995:Prevalence; D012650:Self Disclosure; D017406:Sexual Harassment; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires