Abstract
Purpose. Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a serious, preventable public health concern that largely affects women of reproductive age. Obstetrician-gynecologists (ob-gyns) have a unique opportunity to identify and support women experiencing IPV to improve women’s health. Considering recent efforts to increase IPV awareness and intervention, the present study aimed to provide a current evaluation of nationally representative samples to assess ob-gyn readiness to respond to IPV as well as patient IPV-related experiences. Methods. 400 ob-gyns were randomly selected from American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ (ACOG) Collaborative Ambulatory Research Network. Each physician was mailed one physician survey and 25 patient surveys. Results. IPV training/education and IPV screening practices were associated with most measures of ob-gyn readiness to respond to IPV. Among respondents, 36.8% endorsed screening all patients at annual exams; however, 36.8% felt they did not have sufficient training to assist individuals in addressing IPV. Workplace encouragement of IPV response was associated with training, screening, detection, preparation/knowledge, response practices, and resources. Thirty-one percent of patients indicated their ob-gyn had asked about possible IPV experiences during their medical visit. Conclusion. Findings highlight specific gaps in ob-gyns’ IPV knowledge and response practices to be further addressed by IPV training.
Highlights
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a serious, preventable public health concern
In light of recent efforts to increase IPV awareness and intervention [12, 13], the present study aimed to provide a current evaluation of ob-gyn readiness to recognize and respond to IPV as well as patient experiences in nationally representative samples
We found that classroom and postgrad IPV training has increased such that ob-gyns who have been in practice for fewer years are more likely to have received such training
Summary
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a serious, preventable public health concern. IPV is most prevalent among those of reproductive age and contributes to gynecological disorders, pregnancy complications, unintended pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infections [6]. Given these serious health consequences and the threat to women’s safety, the Institute of Medicine recommends that all women be screened and counseled for IPV [7]. Physician screening increases rates of IPV identification [10, 11], which enables physicians to offer patients counseling interventions as well as referral to community resources. Improved health outcomes for women confer positive benefits for children, families, and communities
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
