Physical Intimate Partner Violence and Maternal Outcomes in a Hospital-Based Sample of Pregnant Women in Jordan

AIM: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of physical intimate partner violence on maternal pregnancy/ birth outcomes. METHODS: A cross-sectional, descriptive, comparative design was used. Consecutively, 223 birthing women were chosen. Data was collected in 2014 using the Arabic World Health Organization’s Domestic Violence Questionnaire. RESULTS: Results showed that women who had experienced physical violence during pregnancy had a significantly higher risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension, cesarean section, more pain killer use during birth, and excessive use of postnatal medication. CONCLUSION: Jordanian health policy makers should find a strategy to eliminate intimate partner violence and reduce its negative impact on women. The inclusion of intimate partner violence screening and identification for every pregnant woman is vital. Sufferers should receive a better-focused care in order for early detection and treatment of complications that are related to intimate partner violence.