Women's Perceptions of Maternity Care Responses to Domestic and Family Violence and Abuse: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis of Qualitative Studies.
Megan McClenaghan, Kerri M Gillespie, Kathleen Baird et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis examined perinatal women’s experiences of routine domestic and family violence (DFV) inquiry and responses after disclosure in antenatal care. It synthesized qualitative evidence from 14 articles identified through database and hand searches. Women generally supported routine antenatal screening, particularly when delivered within a midwifery continuity-of-care model. They also stressed that screening should occur in the context of a trusting relationship and be followed by supportive services. The review calls for further research on refugee and minority women’s perspectives and on longer-term outcomes of screening and post-disclosure interventions.
Key findings
- The review synthesized qualitative findings from 14 articles on antenatal DFV screening and post-disclosure care.
- Women were generally in favor of routine antenatal DFV screening, preferably within a midwifery continuity-of-care model.
- Women emphasized trust in the screening professional and access to supportive services after disclosure.
Why it matters
The findings indicate that women’s views of screening depend not only on being asked about DFV, but also on the relationship with the professional and the response available after disclosure. This offers a patient-perspective basis for considering how maternity services organize inquiry and support, while highlighting that evidence about longer-term outcomes and the needs of some groups remains incomplete.
What to keep in mind
The synthesis included English-language qualitative articles published from 2013 onward; the abstract identifies a need for further research on refugee and minority groups and longer-term outcomes.