Domestic violence and health of Pakistani women.

OBJECTIVE

Assessment of the prevalence and health consequences of domestic violence among women in Karachi, Pakistan.

METHODS

Confidential interviews were conducted among 150 women randomly selected from health facilities.

RESULTS

34% reported ever being physically abused, 15% ever being physically abused whilst pregnant and 72% of physically abused women were anxious/depressed. Physical abuse was a major predictor of anxiety/depression.

CONCLUSIONS

The magnitude, physical and mental health consequences of domestic violence represents a serious reproductive health concern for Pakistan.