This article discusses the perinatal health issue of abuse directed at pregnant women by their intimate partners. The incidence, prevalence, and severity of intimate violence during pregnancy are presented, as is a discussion of the possible health disruptions that can occur as a result of violence and abuse. Nursing interventions for abused pregnant women are presented within a framework of advocacy and empowerment. Strategies for primary prevention are outlined, and methods of secondary and tertiary intervention are discussed. The article concludes with a discussion of culturally relevant practice for abused women.
PIP: This article describes the health problem of abuse during pregnancy, and discusses the implications of abuse directed at pregnant women by their intimate partners. The incidence, prevalence, and severity of intimate violence during pregnancy are presented, as well as a discussion of the possible health disruptions that can occur as a result of violence and abuse. In addition, nursing interventions for abused pregnant women are presented within a framework of advocacy and empowerment. It is noted that the most effective intervention approach for abused women is one that is rooted in an empowerment model of helping, in which women are respected for the choices they make and the time lines they must follow. Hence, the goal of intervention is to provide the woman an environment for disclosure and an atmosphere of support and advocacy. Moreover, strategies for primary prevention are outlined, and methods of secondary and tertiary intervention are discussed. To conclude, a discussion of culturally relevant practice for abused women is given.