The Relationship between Domestic Violence and Maternal-Fetal Attachment

Due to the high prevalence of domestic violence among women and more physical and psychological vulnerability during pregnancy, and thus, vulnerability to the growing fetus, there is an urgent need for accurate identification of these individuals. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between domestic violence and maternal-fetal attachment.

In a cross-sectional study, 300 women with a gestational age of 20 to 40 weeks were selected randomly and categorically out of pregnant women covered by these centers. The data collection tool was a demographic questionnaire, a domestic violence questionnaire, and maternal-fetal attachment questionnaire.

The mean age of the women was 28.32 ± 5.96 years; the mean number of years after the marriage was 7.01 ± 4.22 years, and the mean age of the spouse was 31.37 ± 5.93. The mean number of pregnancies was 1.9 ± 1.67. Further, 65.7% of the women experienced mild violence, 19.3% were under moderate violence, and 15.1% under severe violence. The linear regression of the relationship between the total score of violence and the overall score of the attachment of the mothers was significant, while controlling some of their demographic characteristics (Pvalue < 0.001).

The exact knowledge of the effects of domestic violence on maternal-fetal attachment can empower and inform health center staff effectively to diagnose and manage violence against pregnant women. In this way, they can focus more on maternal and fetal emotional support and encouraging the pregnant women to adopt the right care.