Violence in pregnancy linked to behavioural problems

Domestic violence in pregnancy is linked to depression and childhood behavioural problems, suggests new research by scientists from the Health Services and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry (IoP) at King's. Domestic violence has significant health consequences and it is estimated that around 24% of women have suffered from it. In particular, abuse during pregnancy can increase the risk of complications such as pre-term labour, reduced birth weight, miscarriage and foetal death. This study looked at the long term impact of antenatal domestic violence on maternal psychiatric morbidity and child behaviour. The study involved 13,617 women. Antenatal domestic violence was assessed at 18 weeks gestation. Participants were asked two questions on whether their partner had been emotionally cruel and/or physically hurt them since the start of the pregnancy.