Prevalence Of Intimate Partner Violence Research Articles

Differential Experiences of Intimate Partner Violence during COVID-19: A Cross-Regional Study in Mexico

The COVID-19 pandemic brought on a marked increase in intimate partner violence (IPV) worldwide, Mexico being no exception. Factors that exacerbated gender-based violence (GBV) in the household during the pandemic include gendered loss of income, regression in access to social and legal justice resources, reversal to more traditional gender norms and roles, and increased alcoholism. While there are studies about the prevalence and determinants of IPV in rural and urban Mexico, there appears to be a lack of information regarding how these realities differed as they interacted with the compounding pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic. Stemming from 10 ethnographic interviews with women across rural and urban localities of Oaxaca, Mexico City, and Mexico State, who were recruited from NGOs providing psychological and legal services against GBV, we analyze some factors associated with the prevalence of IPV during confinement. We conclude that all women in our study experienced IPV both before and during the pandemic, with variations in IPV patterns influenced by their rural or urban residence, socio-economic status, ethnic-racial identity, and proximity to the abuser’s network. We also found that not all impacts were negative, rather COVID-19 measures had a paradoxical effect for some women where restrictions on geographical mobility and decrease in access to alcohol became pivotal protective factors. We recommend that public policymakers and civil society organizations alike pay attention to these differential challenges and benefits in their crisis responses.

Socioeconomic Inequalities in Intimate Partner Violence: Evidence from Vietnam.

Although socioeconomic inequality has been identified as a significant factor for violence against women, the connection between these two variables has not been widely recognized and addressed in many countries. This study aims to quantify the degree of socioeconomic inequalities in intimate partner violence (IPV) in Vietnam and investigate the contribution of each determinant factor that contributes to the observed inequality. We utilized the Vietnamese National Survey on Domestic Violence against Women (N = 4,019) for the analysis. Household wealth was used as a proxy for socioeconomic status. We used a concentration index to quantify the degree of socioeconomic inequality in emotional, physical, or sexual violence and a combination of these three types of violence. We further decomposed the concentration index to identify the contribution of each determinant to the observed inequality in IPV. We found that the prevalence of IPV was significantly concentrated among the worse-off across all types of IPV and that disparities in husband's occupation (48%), women's education (39%), husband's education (38%), and class (34%) were the primary factors contributing to increased inequalities in IPV. Our results indicated that higher education and engagement in skilled jobs were highly concentrated among the better-off, creating unequal distribution of these variables across wealth. Policy could mitigate the inequality in IPV by expanding women's access to education and economic opportunities. However, interventions should target both men and women and within couples because husband's characteristics also play an important role in explaining socioeconomic inequalities in IPV.

The Relations Among Childhood Maltreatment and Later Intimate Partner Violence Victimization With and Without a Weapon in a Sample of Pregnant Black Individuals.

Black pregnant and postpartum individuals are at risk for intimate partner violence (IPV), and those with a history of childhood maltreatment and IPV are even more likely to be re-victimized during pregnancy. However, it is unknown if specific types of child maltreatment predict later IPV with and without a weapon better than others. The current study sought to (i) document the prevalence of childhood maltreatment and IPV and (ii) examine the relations among types of childhood maltreatment and later IPV with and without a weapon within a sample of Black individuals seeking prenatal care at a large public hospital in the southeastern United States. Participants (n = 186; mean age = 27.2 years, SD = 5.3) completed measures assessing childhood maltreatment and IPV with and without a weapon. Approximately 68.5% of participants (n = 124) endorsed experiencing childhood maltreatment, while 42.6% (n = 78) endorsed experiencing IPV. The bivariate relations among five childhood maltreatment types (i.e., sexual, physical, and emotional abuse, physical and emotional neglect) and IPV with and without a weapon were assessed. All childhood maltreatment subtype scores-except childhood physical neglect-were significantly higher among participants who reported a history of IPV with or without a weapon compared to participants who denied a history of IPV with or without a weapon. Logistic regression models revealed childhood sexual abuse emerged as the only significant predictor of experiencing IPV with a weapon (B = 0.10, p = .003) and IPV without a weapon (B = 0.11, p = .001). For every point increase in childhood sexual abuse subtype score, the odds of experiencing IPV with and without a weapon increased by 10% (OR = 1.10, 95%CI [1.04, 1.18]) and 12% (OR = 1.12, [1.05, 1.20]), respectively. Findings suggest that screening for childhood sexual abuse may provide a critical opportunity for maternity care providers to identify individuals at increased risk for IPV victimization with and without a weapon.

Hidden numbers, hidden people: Family violence among South Asian Australians

International research suggests that migrants face additional challenges that may heighten their risk of experiencing family violence (FV). South Asians are one of Australia’s fastest growing immigrant populations—yet relatively little is known about their experiences of FV. This study sought to address this research gap by ascertaining what could be gleaned about FV experiences of Australian South Asians the Australian Bureau of Statistic’s 2016 Personal Safety Survey (PSS). While prior versions of the PSS have been deemed non-representative of minority cultural groups, it remains the largest FV victimisation dataset in Australia, and undoubtedly would include information about South Asian Australians. Specifically this study examined the lifetime prevalence and 10-year incidence of most recent FV among South Asian-born (SAB) immigrants and compared these figures to Australian-born (AB) individuals. SAB Australians included in the PSS reported lower lifetime prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) and a lower 10-year incidence of at least one type of FV (IPV and/or non-partner FV) than AB Australians. The sampling approach of the PSS was shown to have substantial methodological limitations that reduced the utility of these findings. Specifically, the sampling of South Asian immigrants in Australia was not demographically representative nor was the sample size sufficient for meaningful analysis. The implications of these limitations and recommendations to address them in future population-level FV surveys are explored.

Intimate Partner Violence Among Rwandan Women With HIV: A Cross-Sectional Study.

In Rwanda, women have higher incidence of HIV and intimate partner violence (IPV). This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of IPV among women living with HIV (WWH) in Rwanda and measure the difference in psychological outcomes, demographic data, and HIV-related outcomes using a cross-sectional, descriptive, observational design. A convenience sample of 162 Rwandan WWH were purposefully recruited to participate. The study collected demographic data and data about IPV, depression, HIV-related stigma, coping, self-esteem, and hope. The prevalence of any form of IPV in the sample was 27% with psychological IPV being the most prevalent. Demographic data had no statistical significance with the prevalence of IPV. WWH who experienced IPV had higher HIV stigma, lower coping self-efficacy, lower self-esteem, and less hope and worse HIV psychological outcomes. Further studies are needed to look into the correlation between the two and interventions addressing IPV prevention.

Armed conflicts and experience of intimate partner violence among women in Afghanistan: analysis of the 2015 Afghanistan DHS data

ObjectiveArmed conflicts and intimate partner violence (IPV) impose a burden on individual and societal well-being. Given the history of armed conflict in Afghanistan and the high prevalence of IPV, this...

The status of intimate partner violence against pregnant women in contemporary China: a scoping review

Purpose: This review explored the status of publications on intimate partner violence (IPV) against pregnant women in contemporary China.Methods: The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, and PsycInfo databases were searched using the terms “IPV,” “pregnant woman,” “Chinese,” and synonyms in English, along with related keywords for Chinese publications. All literature pertaining to IPV during pregnancy, conducted in China, and published between 1987 and September 2023 was included.Results: A total of 37 articles from 30 studies were selected. The prevalence of IPV during pregnancy ranged from 2.5% to 31.3%, with psychological violence being the most common form. Frequently identified risk factors included unintended pregnancy, poor family economic conditions, male partners engaging in health risk behaviors, poor employment status of women or their partners, low education levels among women, physical or mental health issues, strained couple relationships, and in-law conflicts. IPV during pregnancy primarily led to mental health problems for the victims and could result in adverse obstetric outcomes, as well as negative effects on the temperament and development of the offspring. Victims in China demonstrated a low willingness to seek help from professionals. Furthermore, relevant research in mainland China is scarce, with a limited number of studies and non-standardized research methodologies.Conclusion: Future research should investigate IPV in pregnancy from various perspectives, identify factors unique to IPV during pregnancy, and focus on high-risk groups. Considering the conditions in China, there is a pressing need to increase public awareness of IPV and to investigate interventions aimed at addressing this issue.

Intimate partner violence and associated factors among married adolescent girls and young women in the pastoralist community of South Ethiopia: is intimate partner violence associated with cultural phenomena?

Violence against women is a major public health problem that affects the physical, sexual, mental, and social wellbeing of more than one-third of all women worldwide. Hence the purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of physical and sexual intimate partner violence (IPV) and associated factors among married adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) belonging to the pastoralist community of Dassenech district, South Omo Zone, South Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among married AGYW in the Dassenech district from March 1, 2022, to April 1, 2022. A multi-stage sampling technique was adopted to select 545 participants. The data were collected using pre-tested and standardized WHO multi-country study tools. A binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify the independent predictors of physical and sexual intimate partner violence. The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to measure the effect size, and finally, a p-value<0.05 was considered statistically significant. The prevalence of physical IPV among AGYW belonging to the pastoralist community of Dassenech district was 44.1% (95% confidence interval (CI): 40%, 48%) and that of sexual IPV was 39.3% (95% CI: 35%, 43%). The husband only deciding for the household (AOR = 11.36; 95% CI: 6.97, 18.53), the father performing the Dimi cultural ceremony (AOR = 3.70; 95% CI: 2.22, 6.14), and frequent quarrels (AOR = 2.06; 95% CI: 1.07, 3.99) are significantly associated with physical IPV. Both partners drinking alcohol (AOR = 3.47; 95% CI: 1.94, 6.20), the husband only deciding for the household (AOR = 11.23; 95% CI: 6.91, 18.27), and frequent quarrels (AOR = 2.29; 95% CI: 1.15, 4.56) were factors significantly associated with sexual IPV. Physical and sexual intimate partner violence is a significant public health problem in the study area. Therefore, interventional measures to change the attitude of cultural leaders, providing education to married men and women on risky sexual behavior, and empowering women need to be prioritized to prevent the occurrence of this problem.

Prevalence, correlates, and trends of intimate partner violence against women in Pakistan: Results from Pakistan Demographic and Health surveys 2012-13 and 2017-18.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a global public health problem. The objectives of this study were to analyze the prevalence and correlates of IPV perpetrated by men against women from the recent nationally representative Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS) 2017-18, and to analyze levels and trends of IPV perpetrated by current/former husbands from PDHS conducted in 2012-13, in the four provinces and the capital city. Association of having ever experienced IPV, defined as either emotional, physical and/or sexual violence, by ever married women aged 15-49, with 12 explanatory socio-demographic, attitudinal, and experiences were analyzed using simple and multiple logistic regression models. The prevalence of having ever experienced IPV was 33.48% (95% CI: 30.76-36.32). In the final multivariable model, number of living children, having knowledge of parental physical IPV, husband's use of alcohol, and marital control were statistically significantly associated with IPV. Proportions and trend analysis of emotional and physical IPV between the PDHS 2017-18 and PDHS 2012-13, showed that in general, rural areas of provinces reported higher prevalence of emotional and physical IPV, compared with urban areas, and in general, emotional, and physical IPV prevalence declined from PDHS2012-13 to PDHS2017-18. The prevalence of having experienced physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence in Pakistan was lower than the prevalence for the WHO Eastern Mediterranean region. However, IPV burden at the provincial urban-rural residency status underscore the need for location specific strategies to effectively address IPV in Pakistan.

Prevalence and predictors of Intimate Partner Violence among Women of Reproductive Age in Plateau state, North-Central Nigeria

Introduction: Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is an important public health problem that affects both men and women, especially women globally. This study brings to bear, the prevalence and predictors of IPV among women of reproductive age in Plateau state, Nigeria.&#x0D; Materials and methods: An analysis of secondary data from the 2018 NDHS dataset was done. The survey collected data on a sample of women within the reproductive age group 15-49 years in Plateau State. The data set was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.&#x0D; Results: A total of 139 responded to the questions on IPV in Plateau state, more of whom are within the age range of 25-39 years (67.6%) and resided in rural areas (77%). The overall prevalence of IPV was 62.6%, that of more severe physical violence was 7.9%, 15.8% for less severe physical violence, emotional violence was 58.3% and 12.2% for sexual violence. Living in rural a rural area (OR=4.28; 95% CI=1.72-10.93), belonging to the middle/rich/richer wealth quintile (OR=0.25; 95% CI=0.11-0.59), and having a partner who has control issues (OR=2.67; 95% CI=1.32-5.38) were significant predictors of IPV. Having a non-professional job also showed higher odds of IPV but it was not statistically significant (OR=1.67; 95% CI=0.56-4.97).&#x0D; Conclusion: The prevalence of IPV among women in Plateau state was found to be high, with socio-economic status significantly predicting its occurrence. Opportunities for improving the socioeconomic status of women in the state, especially those in rural areas should be encouraged by providing better jobs and creating public awareness that would discourage IPV.

Prevalence of intimate partner violence in pregnant women during the COVID-19 epidemic in Qazvin-Iran 2021

IntroductionIntimate partner violence (IPV) in pregnant women is considered one of the most important types of violence, which can include physical, psychological abuse and sexual violence. During the lockdown due to COVID-19, the home is at risk of becoming a very dangerous place for victims of domestic violence. We aimed to determine the prevalence of IPV and associated factors in pregnant women in Qazvin, Iran.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted on 450 pregnant mothers who were referred to the Kowsar Hospital Prenatal Clinic in Qazvin in 2021. Participants were assessed using a questionnaire consisting of four parts (demographic data, Abuse Assessment Screen (AAS) for domestic violence, The Revised Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS2) for IPV. Data were collected and analysis was performed via SPSS software version 22 using a non-parametric test; Mann–Whitney and × 2 tests.ResultsThe overall prevalence of IPV was higher in pregnant women than their husbands in Qazvin. The most common form of IPV was psychological aggression (24.8%), followed by scale of injury (8.2%), physical (3.3%) and sexual (4.2%) violence. In addition, analysis of the AAS questionnaire shows that psychological violence is the most common form of domestic violence among pregnant women.ConclusionIn this study, IPV in pregnant women has increased slightly compared to studies conducted in the years leading up to the COVID-19. Risk of IPV was not related to previous COVID-19 infection. Collaborative efforts between various stakeholders and policy actions must be taken to ensure the safety and protection of pregnant women during this challenging time.

Prevalence of sexual abuse and intimate partner violence in adults with spina bifida

BackgroundPeople with disabilities and chronic medical conditions are known to be at higher risk of sexual abuse (SA) and intimate partner violence (IPV). People with spina bifida (SB) are vulnerable, but little is known about the prevalence of abuse in this population. ObjectiveTo evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of SA and IPV in adults with SB. MethodsAn anonymous international cross-sectional online survey of adults with SB asked about history of SA (“sexual contact that you did not want”) and IPV (“hit, slapped, kicked, punched or hurt physically by a partner”). ResultsMedian age of the 405 participants (61% female) was 35 years. Most self-identified as heterosexual (85%) and were in a romantic relationship (66%). A total of 19% reported a history of SA (78% no SA, 3% preferred not to answer). SA was more frequently reported by women compared to men (27% vs. 5%, p < 0.001) and non-heterosexual adults compared to heterosexuals (41% vs. 15%, p < 0.001). Twelve percent reported a history of IPV (86% no IPV, 2% preferred not to answer). IPV was more frequently reported by women compared to men (14% vs. 9%, p = 0.02), non-heterosexuals compared to heterosexuals (26% vs. 10%, p = 0.002), and adults with a history of sexual activity versus those without (14% vs. 2%, p = 0.01). ConclusionPeople with SB are subjected to SA and IPV. Women and non-heterosexuals are at higher risk of both.

The Association between Intimate Partner Violence and Female Syrian Refugees’ Mental Health

Abstract Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is one of the world’s most critical public health issues. Aims: The main aim of the study was (1) to examine the association between IPV and female Syrian refugees’ mental health. We also wanted: (2) to assess the prevalence of IPV and its subtypes – controlling, emotional, physical, and sexual violence – among female Syrian refugees, (3) to evaluate the association between childhood maltreatment and IPV, and (4) examine IPV and risky behaviors. Settings and Design: This study is a descriptive cross-sectional study. A clinician interviewed (n = 289) female Syrian refugees seeking therapy in Egypt. Materials and Methods: Female Syrian refugees completed the following assessments: WHO Multi-Country Study on Women’s Health and Domestic Violence Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory-II, Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS)-16. Results: Female Syrian refugees who had experienced IPV scored significantly higher on the BDI-II (U = 1799, P &lt; 0.00), BAI (U = 2511.5, P &lt; 0.00), and DERS (U = 1636, P &lt; 0.00). In addition, 90.3% of them experienced psychological control, 91.3% emotional abuse, 39.4% physical violence, and 27% sexual violence by an intimate partner. Those who had experienced physical IPV were more likely to use substances (χ 2 = 5.8, P &lt; 0.05), engage in binge eating (χ 2 = 17.5, P &lt; 0.001), and have suicidal thoughts or behaviors (χ 2 = 5.1, P &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: Female Syrian refugees with a history of IPV exhibited significantly worse mental health. There is an imperative need for mental health treatment and prevention strategies for female Syrian refugees.

Protective Factors Affecting Trauma Recovery Among Female South Asian Immigrant Intimate Partner Violence Survivors: A Scoping Review.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a pressing public health issue affecting women worldwide. Thirty percent of women experience some form of violence throughout their lifetime globally, and South Asian countries have a higher prevalence of IPV (33%-51%). Notably, IPV has detrimental psychological impacts not only on women but also on their children. Despite this, limited empirical attention has explored protective factors for IPV trauma recovery. This review examines protective factors aiding South Asian immigrant IPV survivors' trauma recovery using Joanna Briggs Institute JBI methodology. The study draws on PubMed, Scopus, and PsychINFO data, resulting in 20 articles retrieved using Rayyan software. Protective factor's themes and subthemes revealed in the literature operated at multiple levels, including personal, interpersonal, community, and professional factors. Personal factors were selfhood, collective self, and adaptation, as well as those that enabled the utilization of interpersonal, community, and professional factors; interpersonal factors were family and friends, children as motivators, and religion; and community and professional factors were resources and technology usage. Immigrant status and culture significantly impacted the protective factors, acting as barriers among some IPV survivors. Therefore, future research should focus on exploring the experiences and cultural values of South Asian immigrant women with other influencing factors that may hinder the development and impact of protective factors on IPV trauma recovery. These findings can help design culturally sensitive support services that incorporate the unique needs of female South Asian immigrant IPV survivors.

Global prevalence of intimate partner violence during the COVID-19 pandemic among women: systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundDuring the coronavirus pandemic, people faced strict preventive measures, including staying at home and maintaining social distance, which led to increasing rates of intimate partner violence. Women have been facing dual health emergencies, including COVID-19 and domestic violence. Despite this, there is a lack of representative data on intimate partner violence during the COVID-19 pandemic and inconsistent findings.MethodsThe Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were used to develop the systematic review and meta-analysis. All English-language studies conducted between 31 December 2019 and May 15/2022 were extracted from databases such as PubMed/Medline, CINAHL, and Google Scholar. The quality of the articles was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument (JBI-MAStARI). The I2 was used to assess heterogeneity among studies. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plot inspection and Egger’s test. A random effect model was used for the analysis using RevMan and STATA 14 software.ResultA total of 5065 studies were retrieved, and 14 studies were included in the final meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of intimate partner violence was 31% (95% CI: 22, 40). Subgroup analysis based on region showed that the highest prevalence of intimate partner violence was in developing regions (33, 95% CI: 23.0, 43.0) compared to developed regions (14, 95% CI: 11.0, 17.0). Subgroup analysis based on country showed that Uganda had the highest prevalence of IPV 68% (95% CI: 62.0, 72.0), and the lowest was in the USA 10% (95% CI: 7.0, 15.0).ConclusionNearly one in three women experienced intimate partner violence during the COVID-19 pandemic. Subgroup analysis based on region showed that the highest prevalence of intimate partner violence was in developing regions (33%). All forms of intimate partner violence (physical, sexual, emotional, and economic) were prevalent. Thus, available interventions should be implemented to alleviate women’s intimate partner violence during the COVID-19 pandemic and similar emerging and remerging pandemics, particularly in developing countries.Trial registrationPROSPERO registration number: CRD42022334613.

Intimate partner violence during pregnancy and its association with birth asphyxia in hospitals of Tigray region, Ethiopia

BackgroundBirth asphyxia is the main cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity worldwide. Some studies indicate intimate partner violence during pregnancy is a risk factor for birth asphyxia. In Ethiopia, intimate partner violence during pregnancy is reported to be high. Despite this high prevalence, there is a lack of data about the association of birth asphyxia and intimate partner violence. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of intimate partner violence during pregnancy and its associated factors with birth asphyxia in health facilities in the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia.MethodsThis was an institutional-based cross-sectional study conducted at select health facilities in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. Random sampling technique was employed to select health facilities and systematic sampling was used to select 648 study participants. Data was entered by using Epi info version 3.5.1 and was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Bivariate and multivariate analysis was done to assess the association between exposure to intimate partner violence during pregnancy and birth asphyxia after adjusting for possible confounders.ResultsThe prevalence of intimate partner violence during pregnancy was 47(7.3%). Eighty two (12.7%) babies were delivered with birth asphyxia. Intimate partner violence during pregnancy had a significant association with birth asphyxia, AOR (95% CI) = 4.4(2-9.8). In addition to this, other factors that were associated with birth asphyxia include place of residence [ AOR (95% CI) = 2.7(1.55–4.8)], age > 19 [AOR (95% CI) = 2.9(1.29–6.5)], age 20–35 [AOR (95% CI) = 3.1(1.06–9.3)], gestational age < 37 weeks [AOR(95% CI) = 7.2(3.5–14.8)] and low birth weight [AOR(95% CI) = 3.9(2.1–7.3)].ConclusionsThe prevalence of birth asphyxia in this study is high and is further increased by intimate partner violence during pregnancy. Health care providers and policy makers should take measures aimed at preventing intimate partner violence during pregnancy to reduce harm to the mother and adverse birth outcomes.

Intimate partner violence influences modern family planning use among married women in Tanzania: cross-sectional study

BackgroundMarried women who experience intimate partner violence (IPV) are less likely to negotiate with their partners on modern family planning (FP) use. This study aimed to determine the influence of intimate partner violence and sociodemographics on modern family planning use.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Mara region, Tanzania from April to July 2020. A total of 366 married women were interviewed. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Analysis was done using SPSS version 25, and a binary logistic regression model was used to determine the predictors of modern FP use. The significance level was set at a p-value less than 0.05.ResultsThe overall prevalence of IPV was 73% with 54.1% physical, 36.3% psychological, and 25.4%, sexual violence. The prevalence of modern FP use was 62%, and the most (49.1%) common method practiced by married women was injection (Depo Provera). Physical violence (AOR = 0.32, p = 0.0056), and psychological violence (AOR = 0.22, p = 0.0022) had significantly reduced odds of modern FP use. Religion (AOR = 4.6, p = 0.0085), and availability of preferred modern FP methods (AOR = 9.27, p < 0.0001) had significantly increased odds of modern FP use.ConclusionIn this study, there is a positive association between the use of modern FP methods and IPV. To prevent IPV and its negative health consequences, it is crucial to involve community leaders and primary healthcare workers. They can help in identifying the best strategies to prevent IPV and promote the use of modern FP methods. It is equally important to involve male partners in reproductive health decisions, including the use of modern FP methods. This approach will help reduce reproductive coercion.

COVID-19, pandemic lockdowns and intimate partner violence among HIV-positive women in Ghana

ABSTRACT This study examines the prevalence and risk factors of physical, sexual, psychological, and economic violence during lockdowns associated with COVID-19 among HIV-positive women in Ghana. Data were collected in August 2021 from a cross-section of 538 HIV-positive women aged 18 years and older in the Lower Manya Krobo District in the Eastern region of Ghana. Logit models were used to explore relationships between women’s self-reported experiences of physical, sexual, psychological /emotional, and economic violence under lockdown and key socio-economic and demographic characteristics. The findings indicate moderate to high prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) under lockdown in our sample: physical violence (30.1%), sexual violence (28.6%), emotional/psychological violence (53.7%), and economic violence (54.2%). IPV was higher on all four measures for educated women, poorer women, employed women, cohabiting and married women, and HIV seroconcordant couples.

Intimate partner violence among women in Togo: a generalised structural equation modeling approach

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the magnitude and identify associated factors with intimate partner violence (IPV) in Togo.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingTogo.ParticipantsWomen of reproductive age (15–49 years).Primary outcomeIntimate partner violence.MethodsThis study used data...

Intimate partner violence and excess fertility among women of reproductive age in Malawi.

Gender inequity and adverse health outcomes continue to be of concern among women in sub-Saharan Africa. We determined prevalence of intimate partner violence and excess fertility (having more children than desired) in reproductive age women in Malawi. We also explored factors associated with these outcomes and with spousal fertility intentions. In a cross-sectional study, a total of 360 women and 410 men were recruited using multi-stage sampling from communities in a peri-urban setting in Blantyre District, Southern Malawi in 2021. Women and men were separately interviewed by trained study workers using a structured questionnaire. In addition to descriptive analyses, we used univariate and multivariate logistic regression models to assess associations of risk factors with the outcomes of intimate partner violence and excess fertility. Among women, lifetime prevalence of intimate partner violence was 23.1%, and excess fertility was experienced by 25.6%. Intimate partner violence was associated with male partners alcohol consumption (adjusted odds ratio 2.13; P = 0.019). Women were more likely to report excess fertility if they were older (adjusted odds ratio 2.0, P<0.001, for a 5-year increase). Alcohol consumption by the male partner (adjusted odds ratio 2.14; P = 0.025) and women being able to refuse sex with their male partner (adjusted odds ratio 0.50; P = 0.036) were associated with discordant fertility preferences. Intimate partner violence, excess fertility, and social and health inequities continue to be prevalent in Malawi. These data suggest the underlying proximal and distal factors associated with these adverse outcomes such as alcohol consumption may be addressed through education, couple interactive communication, and community dialogue. To ensure sustainability and effectiveness, strong leadership involvement, both governmental and non-governmental, is needed.