Violence against pregnant women: Prevalence, patterns, risk factors, theories, and directions for future research

Violence against women is a global concern, and it is estimated that one in every five women will experience some form of violence in their lifetime (World Health Organization, 2005). Violence during pregnancy is of special concern due to the potential negative consequences to both the mother and her unborn child. This paper examines and consolidates findings from the extant research concerning the prevalence of violence against pregnant women, the nature and patterns of violence experienced by pregnant women, the factors that place women at risk for experiencing pregnancy violence, and the theories that may contribute to a better understanding of the violence directed at this specific vulnerable population. A number of areas that warrant attention in future research are discussed to address gaps in the extant literature that, if overcome, would facilitate a better understanding of violence against pregnant women.