Intimate partner violence and women's reproductive health

Intimate partner violence is common among women, with an estimated 30% of all women globally likely to experience physical or sexual violence by a husband, intimate partner or ex-partner. While most prevalence estimates are based on consideration of physical or sexual violence, IPV can also encompass psychological, financial or social abuse. Although influenced by multiple factors at the societal, community, and relationship levels, the behaviour of individuals (the abusive partner) often results from the desire to have power and control over a woman's actions. The presence of past or current IPV in a woman's life can have profound implications for all aspects of her reproductive health, and healthcare providers need to have the skills to identify IPV, and provide appropriate support and referrals as required.