NCJ Number
210410
Journal
Trauma, Violence, & Abuse: A Review Journal Volume: 6 Issue: 3 Dated: July 2005 Pages: 217-235
Date Published
July 2005
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This literature review considers the possible association between intimate partner violence and women’s ability to control their fertility.
Abstract
While a wide body of research has documented the numerous physical and mental health consequences of intimate partner violence, relatively little research attention has considered the indirect effects that living in an abusive environment can have on a woman’s ability to control her own fertility. The review begins by describing the prevalence and consequences of unintended pregnancies, with a particular focus on this phenomenon in developing countries. The health consequences for the women as well as the subsequent infants and children are described and the complications arising from abortions are considered. Next the article turns to a review of the research on intimate partner violence, particularly as it affects women who are pregnant. The few studies that have examined the relationship between intimate partner violence and unintended pregnancies are summarized and critiqued before the authors discuss the policy and programmatic implications of the findings, which include targeting groups at high risk for the deleterious consequences associated with unintended pregnancy. Future research should focus on identifying vulnerable subgroups through an exploration of potential effect modifiers. References