Citation

Bewley CA, Gibbs A. Midwifery 1991; 7(3): 107-112.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1991, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

1943820

Abstract

Statistics available in the UK and in North America indicate that violence towards women by their partner is widespread but under-reported. Research shows that violence is likely to begin or escalate during pregnancy. It is suggested that violence to pregnant women may be more common than gestational diabetes or placenta praevia, and that it may be responsible for miscarriage, preterm labour and fetal injuries. This paper examines attitudes prevalent in society towards abused women, considers the psychological consequences of their abuse and the inherent difficulties women face when they try to leave a relationship with a violent partner. It also describes how midwives may recognise women who have been abused by their partner and suggests the development of strategies to help such women.

Language: en