High prevalence of intimate partner violence among pregnant teenagers in Lira district, northern Uganda: a cross sectional study

Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) during pregnancy is associated with adverse health outcomes for the mother and her unborn baby. Whereas the literature on IPV in the general population is extensive, little is known about IPV among pregnant teenagers especially in resource limited settings. This study determined the prevalence and factors associated with IPV among pregnant teenagers attending antenatal care clinics (ANC) in Lira District, Northern Uganda. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of 310 pregnant teenagers attending ANC at Lira regional referral hospital and Ogur health center IV. Eligible teenagers were recruited consecutively until the required sample size was accrued. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. IPV was determined using the Revised Conflict Tactile Scale (CTS2) screening tool. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with IPV during pregnancy while considering potential confounding factors. Results: The overall prevalence of IPV among pregnant teenagers was 40.6% [95% CI: 35.13-46.34]. The prevalence of psychological violence was 37.1%, [95% CI: 31.70-42.74]; sexual assault 29%, [95% CI: 24.04-34.43] and physical violence was 24.8%, [95% CI: 20.13-30.04]. Partner alcohol intake (OR=5.00, 95%CI: 2.87-8.71, P =0.000); polygamy (OR=2.80, 95%CI: 1.49-5.23, p=0.001); and inability to make major decision in the home by the teenage mother (OR=2.42, 95%CI: 1.29-4.54: P=0.006); were independently associated with IPV during pregnancy. Conclusion: About 4 in 10 of pregnant teenagers in Lira district, Northern Uganda experience IPV. This is higher than what has been reported in the general population of pregnant women in Uganda. Teenagers were more likely to experience IPV if they were in a polygamous relationship, were unable to make major decisions in the home and had an alcoholic partner. IPV screening and counselling should be part of the routine antenatal care package. Key words; Intimate partner violence, teenage pregnancy, factors associated.