Violence during pregnancy among Angolan women

Background: Violence during pregnancy is a major public health problem, especially in low and middle income countries. We measured the prevalence of violence against pregnant women in Luanda (Angola), its associations with demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the women and its impact on pregnancy outcomes. Participants and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study, involving 984 puerperal women aged 13–46 years old assessed between December 2012 and February 2013 at Lucrécia Paím Maternity, Luanda. Chi-square test was used to compare the prevalence of physical and of psychological violence according to demographic, socioeconomic, lifestyle, reproductive health related characteristics and pregnancy outcomes. Logistic regression models were fitted to analyze the association (Odds Ratio, 95% Confidence Interval; OR, 95%CI) between violence during pregnancy and low birth weight. Results: The prevalence of violence during pregnancy was 12.6%. Experiences of physical, psychological and sexual violence were reported by 4.3%, 7.5% and 0.2% of the women, respectively. Women experiencing physical violence were younger (p = 0.005), more often reported to consume alcohol (p < 0.001) and were two times more likely to deliver a low birth weight newborn (adjusted OR, 95%CI = 1.92, 0.92-3.97). Conclusion: This first report on violence against pregnant Angolan women, shows that physical violence is frequent and significantly associated with adverse outcomes, and that prenatal care content should include inquiring about violence during pregnancy. Key messages: Abuse of Pregnant women is frequent in Angola; Screening for violence should be part of prenatal and maternal care.