Abstract / Summary
Abstract Background: Domestic violence and abuse (DVA) during pregnancy is a globally recognized and significant public health concern affecting about 25% of women worldwide. Despite the World Health Organization and other agencies efforts to prevent violence against women in several conventions and conferences, DVA remains prevalent especially in sub-Saharan Africa, Nigeria inclusive. Objective: The aim of this study is to determine Domestic Violence and Abuse in pregnancy: Exploring disclosure, nondisclosure and conflict resolution strategies in South-South, Nigeria. Methods: The research design is a concurrent triangulation mixed-method design as both quantitative and qualitative data were collected at the same time and analysed jointly. A mixed study carried out on 1,720 pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at selected Primary Health Care Centres across Bayelsa and Rivers States (November, 2024 to April, 2025) using convenient sampling. Data was collected with Abuse Assessment Screen (ASS) and Indepth Interview guide. Chi-square tests and regression analysis, Thematic analysis to transcribe, code interview data using NVivo software. Results: 52.9% and 69.2% of participants claimed to have been physically and psychologically abused respectively. It happens frequently (44.2%). Concern for children’s wellbeing (50.6%) is the highest reasons for not disclosing the abuse to anyone followed by shame, embarrassment (13.4%). This result infers that most pregnant women experiencing DVA in Nigeria prefer to use the help of their parents as strategy to cope. Conclusion: The findings suggest that DVA is a significant problem that requires attention from healthcare providers, policymakers, and community leaders.