Violence during pregnancy: a population based study in Ometepec, Guerrero, Mexico
Paredes-Solís, S.; Villegas-Arrizón, A.; Meneses-Renteria, A.; Rodríguez-Ramos, I.Esther.; Reyes-De Jesús, L.; Andersson, N.
Salud Publica de Mexico 47(5): 335-341
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 0036-3634 PMID: 16323526 Document Number: 266954
Objective: To identify the factors associated with the occurrence of physical abuse during pregnancy. Methods: A cross-sectional, community-based study in Ometepec (Mexico) identified women who reported at least one pregnancy in the three years prior to the survey. They completed a questionnaire administered by a female nurse. Results: Of 2389 women surveyed, 709 were included. Among those interviewed without the presence of their partners/husbands, 21% reported a history of physical abuse, and 5.6% reported physical abuse during the last pregnancy. There was a strong association between physical abuse in pregnancy and the report of vaginal bleeding. This suggests that physical abuse might be linked to miscarriage (p=0.06). We found little recognition of physical abuse as a cause of obstetrical problems. There was also an association between physical violence during pregnancy and the admission of violent reactions against children, based on a hypothetical scenario of disobedience. Conclusions: This study identified important associations between obstetrical problems and physical violence.