Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a significant public health issue that affects millions of women worldwide. In Uganda, IPV rates are alarmingly high, with many women experiencing violence during pregnancy. This blog post explores the facilitators and barriers to routine IPV screening in antenatal care (ANC) settings in Uganda, based on a comprehensive study conducted among healthcare providers. By understanding these factors, practitioners can enhance their skills in identifying and responding to IPV, ultimately improving maternal and child health outcomes.
The Importance of Routine IPV Screening
The World Health Organization recommends routine IPV screening during ANC visits to optimize maternal and fetal health outcomes. In Uganda, clinical guidelines emphasize the need for comprehensive screening alongside other medical assessments. However, despite these recommendations, many healthcare providers do not routinely screen for IPV due to various challenges.
Barriers to Effective IPV Screening
- Limited Resources: Staffing shortages and inadequate physical space in ANC clinics hinder the ability to conduct thorough screenings.
- Lack of Training: Many healthcare providers have not received specific training on IPV screening and management, leading to uncertainty about how to approach the topic effectively.
- Cultural Norms: Societal beliefs that family issues should remain private discourage disclosure of IPV by survivors.
Facilitators of Routine IPV Screening
- Adequate Training: Providers who have received training on gender-based violence (GBV) are more likely to conduct routine screenings.
- Availability of Screening Tools: The presence of GBV protocols and tools facilitates routine screening when providers are aware of them.
- Trust Building: Establishing a trusting relationship between healthcare providers and patients encourages disclosure of IPV.
Strategies for Improvement
The study highlights several strategies that can be implemented to enhance routine IPV screening in ANC settings:
- Increase Training Opportunities: Providing comprehensive training on IPV and trauma-informed care can equip healthcare providers with the necessary skills to identify and respond to IPV effectively.
- Create Safe Environments: Ensuring privacy during consultations can encourage women to disclose experiences of violence without fear of retaliation.
- Integrate Screening into Routine Care: Modifying ANC cards to include IPV-related questions can prompt providers to conduct screenings consistently.
The Role of Healthcare Providers
The role of healthcare providers is crucial in addressing IPV during pregnancy. By fostering a supportive environment and utilizing available resources, they can play a significant role in preventing and responding to GBV. Encouraging open communication and building rapport with patients are essential steps towards improving screening practices.
A Call for Action
This research underscores the need for system-wide interventions to strengthen GBV prevention efforts in Uganda's healthcare system. By addressing resource limitations, increasing training opportunities, and promoting awareness of IPV severity, we can improve the quality of care provided to pregnant women experiencing violence.
