Norwegian midwives' experiences with screening for violence in antenatal care - A qualitative study

The aim of this study is to gain a better insight into and understanding of Norwegian midwives' experiences of screening for violence during antenatal care.

We conducted a qualitative study of semi-structured interviews including midwives working in ten Norwegian municipalities. The interviews were analysed using systematic text condensation.

Four main themes can be drawn from the analysis. First, midwives found it difficult to raise the subject of violence, especially in the early phases of the screening programme. Second, the midwives were often provided with information about past experiences of violence, but little on ongoing violence. Third, according to the midwives, building trust was key to initiating direct questions about violence. Finally, more experience and collaboration reduced the barriers for raising the subject of violence.

Findings from this study suggest that screening for violence entails more than just asking a question. Furthermore, ongoing violence is difficult to identify, and women are more likely to relate stories of past violence. To overcome this issue, the midwives underlined the necessity to ask questions and have the capacity to listen to the potentially challenging answers. Findings from this study show that the training received by the midwives in relation to violence varied considerably. Hence, the study demonstrates the need for reinforced and standardised training in how to address violence in antenatal care.