CDC Study Finds 1 in 20 Women Surveyed Experienced Intimate Partner Violence During Pregnancy

A recent CDC report highlights the profound impact of intimate partner violence (IPV) during pregnancy on maternal and infant health. Among women with a live birth in nine U.S. jurisdictions (2016–2022), 5.4% experienced IPV, with emotional violence being the most common (5.2%). IPV was linked to delayed or no prenatal care, depression, substance use, and adverse birth outcomes, including low birth weight and preterm births.

 

Physical IPV increased the risk of pregnancy-related hypertension. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive prevention and intervention strategies to address all forms of IPV, supporting healthier pregnancies and reducing complications for mothers and infants. Read more from the CDC here.