Relationship between violence exposure pregnancy and neonatal low birth weight: a case-control study

ABSTRACT

Birth weight is one of the most important indices of health status in communities. Exposure with violence during pregnancy may influence birth weight. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between exposure with violence during pregnancy and low birth weight. [LBW]. This case-control study was conducted on 318 cases [Mothers with neonates weight less than 2500 grams] and [Mothers with neonates wigheied more than 2500 grams] 318 controls matched by sex of neonate and pregnancy age. The cases were selected using convenience sampling method and the controls were selected using quota sampling method in 2006-2007. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire and interview method. The data were analyzed by descriptive and analytical [chi. square and independent T-test' odds ratio and logistic multiple regression model] statistics' using SPSS 13 software. The mean birth weight among the cases and controls was 2217 +/- 334 and 3390 +/- 392 grams, respectively. This study showed that 13.7% of women were not exposed to any violence during the pregnancy [10% of cases and 17% of controls]. Multiple analysis using logistic regression showed that the chances of LBW among neonates whose mothers were exposed to behavioral, sexual and physical violence were 1.5 [P> 0.05], 2 [P> 0.05] and 4.9 [P=0.01] times that of the unexposed group respectively. The results showed that physical violence during pregnancy influences the birth weight. It is recommended that some programs be plan need to reduce violence, especially physician violence, and the families be justified about the consequences of such violence