Prevalence and Associated Factors of Intimate Partner Violence among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care Clinics at Moshi Municipal Council, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Abstract

Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) during pregnancy represents a field of inquiry of vital importance, since pregnancy is a delicate period when women are expected to be protected from violence. The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence and factors associated with IPV among pregnant women attending antenatal care clinic (ANC) at Moshi municipal council, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design using quantitative approach was conducted in seven health facilities. A total of 340 participants were enrolled using systematic random sampling. Data were collected for four consecutive weeks, using a structured questionnaire which was administered in Kiswahili language. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.0 software, and Chi-square test was used to determine the associations. Results: The mean age of 340 participants was 26.3 years (±6 SD). The overall prevalence of IPV during pregnancy was found to be 49.4% (n=168). Sexual violence was the most common (33%), followed by emotional (29%) and then physical (11%). Furthermore, IPV during pregnancy was significantly associated with: polygamous relationship (OR=0.5), unilateral choice of partner (when the male partner or his relatives choose the female partner without her consent) (OR=4.3), unintended pregnancy (OR=1.7), rare/no control over household expenditures (OR=3.5) and had partner who frequently consumed alcohol (OR=0.4). Conclusions: Nearly half of women experienced intimate partner violence during pregnancy. Sexual violence appears to be the most common type of IPV followed by emotional and physical IPV. Therefore, antenatal care clinic may represent a unique opportunity to identify and screen for IPV victims, and refer the victims to obtain relevant services.