The Prevalence of Domestic Violence among Pregnant Women in Iran: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Domestic violence against women is a major health problem in the world that involves various aspects of maternal and fetal health. Attention to and dealing with this problem require information about its types, severity, and frequency. Therefore, the present meta-analysis aimed to determine the prevalence of domestic violence and its components among Iranian pregnant women.
The present meta-analysis was done using random effect model. In order to selecting studies on the prevalence of domestic violence, the researchers searched SID, Iranmedex, Magiran, Medlib, Pubmed, ISI, and Scopus databases from 2001 to 2013, extracting 64 articles. After reviewing the studies based on the inclusion criteria, 22 articles were selected and analyzed using random effect model and Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software. Besides, heterogeneity among the studies was determined using Q,Ƭ 2, and I2 indices.
The overall prevalence of domestic violence in Iranian pregnant women was 48% (95% CI: 38-58). In addition, the prevalence rates of physical, psychosocial, and sexual violence were 17% (95% CI: 12-32), 41% (95% CI: 33-50), and 21% (95% CI: 16-23), respectively. Moreover, the indices related to heterogeneity were statistically significant (I2≥90).
In this study, the prevalence of domestic violence during pregnancy was higher compared to other regions. Due to its damaging effects, families and authorities should pay specific attention to this issue. Also, considering the high prevalence of domestic violence among pregnant women, healthcare centers are recommend to screen pregnant women in this regard so as to diminish its negative outcomes.