| Physical Violence by Partner during Pregnancy and Use of Prenatal Care in Rural India |
| Authors: |
Alissa D. Koski, Rob Stephenson, and Michael R. Koenig |
| Source: |
Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition, 2011 Jun;29(3):245-254 |
| Topic(s): |
Antenatal care
Domestic violence
Residence
|
| Country: |
Asia
India
|
| Published: |
JUN 2011 |
| Abstract: |
ABSTRACT
The role of physical violence during pregnancy on receipt of prenatal care is poorly understood, particularly
for South Asian countries that have high levels of both fertility and domestic violence. Data from the
1998/1999 Indian National Family Health Survey and a 2002/2003 follow-up survey that re-interviewed
women in four states were analyzed, examining the association between physical violence during pregnancy
and the uptake of prenatal care. Women who experienced physical violence during pregnancy were
less likely to receive prenatal care, less likely to receive a home-visit from a health worker for a prenatal
check-up, less likely to receive at least three prenatal care visits, and less likely to initiate prenatal care early
in the pregnancy. This study highlighted the constraining effect that the experience of physical domestic
violence during pregnancy had on the uptake of prenatal care for women in rural India. Maternal health
services must recognize the unique needs of women experiencing violence from their intimate partners.
Key words: Domestic violence; Pregnancy; Prenatal care; India |
|