Abstract
Pregnancy is often perceived as a joyous and celebratory time, but for many women, it can also be a period of heightened vulnerability. Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a global public health challenge affecting millions of pregnant women worldwide, threatening their physical and emotional well-being, as well as the health of their unborn child. This study aimed to explore the experiences of antenatal attendees and determine the factors exacerbating the occurrence of IPV during pregnancy. The research was a qualitative cross-sectional study of a triangulated research conducted among 400 antenatal attendees at a teaching hospital in Anambra State, Nigeria. Thematic qualitative analysis was used for data analysis. Twenty survivors of IPV were sampled for the qualitative study. These participants reported experiencing controlling behaviors from their spouses, including monitoring their movements, ignoring or treating them indifferently, and being overly jealous. Eighteen (90%) respondents stated that their husbands often refused to eat their food during minor disagreements. Economic hardship, lack of money, and poor business sales were major factors associated with intimate partner violence during pregnancy. Economic stress and frustration caused by financial difficulties and business struggles can increase tension and conflict within the home. Furthermore, limited economic opportunities and resources can restrict women's autonomy and agency, making them more vulnerable to abuse. Addressing poverty and unemployment is crucial in mitigating pregnancy-related intimate partner violence.
Key words: Intimate partner violence, pregnancy, antenatal clinic, tertiary hospital, Anambra State.
