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.