Who should be screened for intimate partner violence (IPV) during pregnancy according to recommendations?

The recommendation to screen all pregnant women for intimate partner violence (IPV) is based on the understanding that IPV can affect anyone regardless of their background, including socioeconomic status, age, or previous history of violence. Universal screening aims to identify those who may be at risk of IPV and to offer appropriate interventions, support, and resources. This approach recognizes that many victims might not disclose their experiences without direct questioning or might be unaware of the support options available to them. By screening all pregnant women, healthcare providers can better ensure that they are addressing a critical aspect of maternal and fetal health.

Screening all pregnant women also aligns with guidelines from various health organizations that emphasize preventing the harmful impacts of IPV, which can have significant physical and psychological consequences for both the mother and the developing fetus. Hence, this proactive measure allows for early intervention and support systems to be set in place to assist those in potentially harmful situations.