Perception and predictors of domestic violence among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in federal medical centres in south east Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the perception, and predictors of domestic violence among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in two selected Federal Medical Centres in South East Nigeria. Three research questions guided the study. The descriptive cross-sectional design was used for this study. The study population comprised of all pregnant women, who were visiting the antenatal clinics of the federal medical centers. Multi-stage sampling technique was used in selecting a sample of 350 pregnant women in the study. Data was collected using a self-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed with the aid of frequencies and percentages. The results obtained showed that the Perception of domestic violence is adequate (45.88%), knowledge of domestic violence was adequate (61.76%), and majority of the respondents were emotionally abused during pregnancy (57.65%). The results further revealed that the pattern of domestic violence experienced include occasionally staying away from home during pregnancy (58.24%) and being verbally abused (45.88%) while 98.24% indicated that they had never been sexually abused, attacked with an object (94.12%) or threatened during pregnancy (76.47%). Factors associated with domestic violence includes occasionally being restricted from handling finance (49.4%), insulted by partner’s relatives (45.35), denied participation in decision making (25.3%) and husband getting drunk (13.5%). t was concluded that there is domestic violence on pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in federal medical centers in south east can be avoided by addressing the socio-cultural gender stereotypes and addressing the potential risks that could cause frictions and misunderstanding in any relationship. The study recommended among others that the Federal Government should appropriately implement the National Gender policy in Nigeria, as this will help in preventing and controlling all forms of domestic violence in the society.