# Prevalence and predictors of intimate partner violence among infertile women in a secondary health facility in South-South Nigeria

## TL;DR

This study found that nearly half of infertile women in Nigeria experienced intimate partner violence, with factors like male substance abuse and polygamy increasing the risk.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific predictors of intimate partner violence among infertile women in a Nigerian setting.

## Key findings

- The prevalence of intimate partner violence was 44.7% among infertile women.
- Male partner alcohol use and smoking were significant predictors of IPV.
- Women in monogamous relationships or who had children with their partner were less likely to experience IPV.

## Abstract

To determine the prevalence of Intimate partner violence (IPV) in a secondary health facility,

A cross-sectional study

Antenatal clinic of a secondary Health facility in Delta state, Nigeria, between July 1st, 2023, and June 30th, 2024

244 women presenting for fertility management within the period of the study

The proportion of women who suffered IPV due to infertility

The prevalence of IPV was 44.7%. Factors that were significantly associated with IPV were alcohol intake by the male partner [OR=2.74, 95% CI (1.25 - 6.01)], and male partner smoking habit [OR=5.90, 95% CI (2.50 – 14.00)]. Women in monogamous relationships were less likely to experience IPV [OR=0.12, 95% CI (0.02 - 0.60)]. Additionally, women who had given birth to one or more children with their partner were also less likely to suffer from IPV [OR=0.24, 95% CI (0.10 - 0.54)]. Psychological 40(16.4%), verbal 35(14.3%), and multiple 28 (11.5%) abuses were the most common forms of IPV. The majority of the participants, 110 (45.1%), would keep IPV a secret, while 54(22.1%) and 39(16.0%) would report to the family or resort to prayer.

Overall, the study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions addressing male substance abuse and societal attitudes towards infertility, particularly in polygamous households, to mitigate IPV against infertile women. Women should be educated on the importance of speaking up in the event of IPV.

None declared