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Physical abuse during pregnancy and preterm delivery
Teresa Rodrigues1, Lúcia Rocha, Henrique Barros
1Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, University of Porto Medical School, Porto, Portugal.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|October 2, 2007
Summary
Physical abuse during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of preterm delivery. This finding holds true even when accounting for various social and behavioral factors, highlighting a critical public health concern.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Public Health
- Perinatal Medicine
Background:
- Preterm delivery is a major global health issue with significant morbidity and mortality.
- Identifying modifiable risk factors for preterm birth is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between experiencing physical abuse during pregnancy and the occurrence of preterm delivery.
- To determine if this association persists after controlling for confounding sociodemographic and behavioral variables.
Main Methods:
- A hospital-based survey involving 2660 women with live births was conducted.
- The Abuse Assessment Screen was used to evaluate physical abuse during pregnancy.
- Logistic regression analysis was employed to assess the odds of preterm birth.
Main Results:
- Mothers of preterm infants were significantly more likely to report physical abuse during pregnancy (24%) compared to mothers of term infants (8%).
- Physical abuse during pregnancy was independently associated with a more than threefold increased risk of preterm birth (OR = 3.14).
- This association remained significant after adjusting for numerous factors including maternal age, socioeconomic status, and substance use.
Conclusions:
- Physical abuse during pregnancy is a substantial risk factor for preterm delivery.
- The elevated risk of preterm birth associated with abuse is independent of common determinants.
- Healthcare providers should screen pregnant women for abuse to mitigate risks for preterm birth.
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