Violence during pregnancy and substance use

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Public Health
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Violence during pregnancy is a significant public health concern.
• Understanding risk factors is crucial for effective intervention.
• Previous research indicates links between violence and mental health, but substance use connections require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the prevalence of physical or sexual violence during pregnancy.
• To identify risk factors associated with experiencing violence during pregnancy, including substance use and mental health history.
• To inform prenatal care practices regarding violence screening.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 1,243 pregnant women.
• Data collection on reported violence, assailant identification, mental health history, current symptoms, pregnancy happiness, social support, and substance use (alcohol, drugs).
• Multivariable analyses controlled for confounders to assess independent associations.

Main Results:

• Seven percent of women reported violence during pregnancy; 94% knew their assailant.
• Victims had higher rates of depression history, suicide attempts, current depressive symptoms, less pregnancy happiness, and less support.
• Victims were more likely to use alcohol/drugs; partners were more likely to use marijuana/cocaine. Both maternal alcohol use and partner drug use were independently linked to increased violence risk.

Conclusions:

• Exposure to violence during pregnancy is associated with adverse mental health and social factors.
• Maternal alcohol use and partner drug use are significant independent risk factors for experiencing violence during pregnancy.
• Routine screening for violence in prenatal care is essential, particularly for women with substance use or those whose partners use substances.