Citation

Drexler KA, Quist-Nelson J, Weil AB. Am. J. Obstet. Gynecol. MFM 2021; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.ajogmf.2021.100542

PMID

34864269

Abstract

Intimate partner violence is defined as any behavior within an intimate relationship that causes physical, psychological, or sexual harm to those in the relationship. Globally, women are disproportionately victims of intimate partner violence. The risk increases during pregnancy, with rates estimated as high as 20% among pregnant persons. Intimate partner violence is associated with adverse perinatal outcomes, including perinatal and maternal death. As pregnancy is a period of frequent interaction with the healthcare system, it is an opportune time to screen and intervene for intimate partner violence. Universal screening at the first prenatal visit and subsequently every trimester is recommended, with either written or verbal validated tools. Pregnant persons experiencing intimate partner violence need nonjudgmental, compassionate, confidential and trauma-informed care. The goal of this review is to outline pregnancy-specific care considerations.

Language: en

Keywords

trauma; pregnancy; intimate partner violence; gender-based violence; trauma-informed care