Screening for domestic violence in an antenatal clinic

In 2000, the Antenatal Clinic at Sutherland Hospital agreed to participate in a Commonwealth funded pilot for domestic violence screening. The aim of the pilot was for midwives to ask all women 16 years old and over three questions about domestic violence during their first visit interview. The pilot was for a three month period. Prior to undertaking the screening, midwives attended a training program, resources and flowcharts were developed and protocols for screening were outlined. During the three month pilot period, 80% of women were screened with 10.7% disclosing previous or current domestic violence. Just under one quarter of the women who disclosed violence wanted further assistance when offered by the midwives. The midwives, although apprehensive prior to commencement of the pilot, recommended that the Antenatal Clinic should continue to screen women for domestic violence. Overall, the midwives felt the screening enhanced their relationship with women, developed their skills in asking about an important health issue and demonstrated a concern for women beyond their immediate medical needs. With thanks to the midwives at the Hospital Antenatal Clinic, Menai Outreach Clinic and Delivery Suite, Sutherland Hospital.