Backgrounds & effects of domestic violence against women referred to law-medicine center of Babol, Iran

Background & Objectives: Domestic violence(DV) is the most prevalent form of violence against women. It is associated with many socio-economic & psychological complications. This research was conducted to identify the causes and effects of violence against women & also characterization of victims.

Materials & Methods: This cross sectional & prospective study included all referring women to law-medicine center of Babol in one year(Feb- Apr 2001). Women with DV(183) were considered as case group and those who were married & had no history of DV were included in control group (325). Data were collected by questionnaire, interview & physical examination.

Results: Prevalence of DV was 36% in referred cases. Physical injuries were the most. 13% complained of sexual violence. 71% of women had psychosomatic signs and symptoms. Head & neck (22.3%) & the limbs (21.6%) were the most common sites of injury. Most of the violence’s were of the hitting or beating types (54%) but penetrating injuries were also observed (41%). Bruises and superficial wounds  were the most common signs of physical trauma. 24% of the referred women had serious physical damages. The most common background for violence were addiction & behavioral disorders.

Discussion: This study showed a high prevalence of  domestic violence against women in comparison with studies elsewhere. Most of the violence's were in the age range of 20-40, in marriages less than 10 years of duration and in those with fewer children. Health workers should be able to find women in risk of violence and support them.