Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to identify the prevalence of domestic violence (DV) against pregnant women in Saudi Arabia and its associated factors to ensure timely intervention, promote maternal well-being, and support safe pregnancy outcomes.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, and data were collected through an online questionnaire distributed to pregnant women via social media.
Results: This study assessed DV during pregnancy among 801 Saudi women, with 108 (13.5%) reporting abuse. Most participants were aged 31-45 years (291, 36.3%) and held a bachelor’s degree (550, 68.7%). The abuse included psychological (96, 88.9%), physical (slapping: 56, 51.9% and pushing: 55, 50.9%), and sexual (56, 51.9%) forms. The key factors associated with the violence included marital status (p < 0.001), antenatal care attendance (p = 0.012), and husband’s employment (p = 0.003). Multivariate analysis also showed the same significant risk predictors with divorced status (OR = 3.325, p < 0.001), lack of antenatal visits (OR = 0.545, p-value = 0.008), and multiparity (OR = 1.485, p-value = 0.026), which increased the risk of DV in pregnancy.
Conclusion: This study highlighted a concerning prevalence of DV during pregnancy in Saudi Arabia, with key risk factors including divorce, lack of antenatal care, and multiparity. Targeted screening and supportive interventions are essential to protect maternal health and well-being.

Key words: Prevalence, factors, domestic violence, pregnant women, Saudi Arabia