Domestic Violence During Pregnancy: Patterns, Drivers, and Health Consequences in Awka South LGA of Anambra State

Abstract

Background: Domestic violence during pregnancy remains a significant global public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where gender inequality and weak enforcement of protective laws persist. In Nigeria, intimate partner violence during pregnancy is increasingly reported, yet community-based evidence from Awka South LGA remains limited. Methods: A mixed-methods cross-sectional study was conducted among women of reproductive age (15–49 years) in Awka South LGA, Anambra State, Nigeria. A total of 195 valid responses were analyzed from 204 distributed questionnaires using a multi-stage sampling technique. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Results: The study found high prevalence of domestic violence during pregnancy: sexual coercion, economic control and physical violence. Key determinants included partner substance use, financial stress and sociocultural norms supporting male dominance. Domestic violence was associated with physical injuries, pregnancy complications, and psychological distress. Education level was not significantly associated with experience of domestic violence (p = 0.53). Conclusion: Domestic violence during pregnancy in Awka South LGA is widespread and driven by structural gender inequality, substance use, and socioeconomic stressors. Strengthening legal enforcement, integrating IPV screening into antenatal care, and expanding community-based interventions are essential for improving maternal health outcomes.