Impact of Domestic Violence on Maternal and Child Health and Well-Being in Rural India

PurposeIndia has one of the highest maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity rates in the world, with rural areas disproportionately affected. Domestic violence (DV) is a leading cause of maternal, fetal, newborn or child mortality and morbidity globally and in India. Therefore, there is a need for a strong system of care to support DV survivors in healthcare services in rural areas. This study examined the impact of DV on the health and well-being of women and children during pregnancy and postpartum in rural India. Further, the study explored the impact of DV and other related factors on women's access, utilization, and barriers to utilization of health care services during pregnancy and post-partum period.MethodIn this qualitative study, 32 semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted from 2021 to 2022, among 17 survivors of DV and 15 key informants.ResultsThe impact of DV on women was identified in multiple adverse outcomes such as poor physical health, miscarriages, abortions, and multiple pregnancies due to forced childbearing and preference for a male child. The impact on born children was identified in areas such as lack of care, abuse, and neglect. Barriers to the utilization of care included factors such as restricted access to care by husbands and in-laws.ConclusionInterventions are needed to spread education and awareness of DV as a social determinant of maternal and child health in rural areas in India. Further, there is need for universal screening and intervention programs for DV during pregnancy and the post-partum period to prevent maternal and child mortality and morbidities in rural areas in India.