Abstract

Background: High rates of Prenatal Intimate Partner Violence (p-IPV) can lead to severe health and social consequences for both the woman and the fetus. This study aimed to assess the impact of p-IPV on birth outcomes and several maternal mental health issues in Da Nang city.

Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted from January 2023 to June 2024 across 28 wards and communes in Da Nang city. The study included 753 mother-infant pairs, followed from birth up to 12 months postpartum.

Results: The study found that p-IPV had a significant impact on birth outcomes, leading to higher rates of obstetric complications (with relative risks (RR)= 4.78), preterm birth (RR = 3.38), and low birth weight (RR = 3.99). Additionally, p-IPV was associated with increased rates of postpartum depression at 6 months (RR = 1.32) and 12 months (RR = 1.30). Negative impacts were also observed in child development at 6 months (RR = 1.98) and 12 months (RR = 1.85), and in child nutritional status, with relative risks for underweight, stunting, and wasting ranging from 1.40 to 1.89.

Conclusions: Prenatal Intimate Partner Violence has serious consequences for both mothers and their children. These findings highlight the urgent importance of preventing and supporting pregnant women experiencing violence to protect the health of both mother and child.