Intimate partner violence

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) has a lifetime prevalence of approximately 60% and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality for women of all reproductive ages, especially among younger women and during pregnancy. Providers should recognize that every woman who has ever been partnered is at risk for IPV and should screen appropriately. When a woman screens positive for IPV, it important to consider the stages of change, to frame the response appropriately, to perform a risk assessment, to discuss interventions, and to document in the medical record accordingly. Screening has yet to translate into reduced rates of abuse, indicating that IPV is not simply a medical problem, but involves complex psychological, financial, familial, cultural, and legal issues.