Citation

Rachana C, Suraiya K, Hisham AS, Abdulaziz AM, Hai A. Eur. J. Obstet. Gynecol. Reprod. Biol. 2002; 103(1): 26-29.

Affiliation

Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, King Faisal University, King Fahd Teaching Hospital of the University, Al-Khobar 31952, P.O. Box 2208 Dammam, Saudi Arabia. rchibber@hospital.kfu.edu.sa

Copyright

(Copyright © 2002, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

12039459

Abstract

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.

Language: en