Prevalence of a history of violence and domestic violence during pregnancy in Iceland and related risk factors during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study.

backgroundOne in three women worldwide will experience physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime, and pregnancy is a risk factor for domestic violence. Recent studies have identified global stressors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, as being connected to an increased prevalence of domestic violence. The aim of the present study was threefold: Firstly, to investigate the prevalence of DV among pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic in Iceland. Secondly, to examine a history of violence experienced by pregnant women in Iceland. Thirdly, to explore the association of symptoms of anxiety and depression, demographic factors and exposure to violence among pregnant women in Iceland.

methodsA cross-sectional design was used. A total of 660 pregnant women receiving prenatal care were recruited and completed a survey between April and June 2021. Descriptive statistics were assessed using univariate analysis, Fisher’s exact test, independent t-tests and linear regression analysis as appropriate.

resultsIn all, 45.8% (n = 302) women were survivors of any type of emotional, physical and/or sexual violence, either in adulthood (n = 212, 31.4%) or childhood (n = 207, 21.1%). Twenty-three (3.5%) reported abuse during the last 12 months, of which 20 reported domestic violence. Twelve (1.8%) reported abuse during current pregnancy. Exposure to violence in adulthood was associated with unemployment and exposure to violence in childhood was associated with unemployment and lower educational level. Abuse during pregnancy was associated with being single. Regardless of when the experience of violence occurred, depression and anxiety symptoms were more prevalent among women who had experienced violence compared to those who had no such history.

conclusionsPregnant Icelandic women commonly reported history of violence, which may be related to their poorer mental health. Iceland benefits from well-organised and comprehensive perinatal services, which need to consider the mental health of women to provide trauma-informed care. Present study did not identify an elevated risk of domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic among pregnant women. Still, pregnant women are exposed to domestic violence during pregnancy and there is a need for more resources for research about violence to find effective preventive measures.