Table 1 Health consequences of domestic violence and abuse (World Health Organization)
Physical | Sexual and reproductive |
- Acute or immediate physical injuries, such as bruises, abrasions, lacerations, punctures, burns, and bites, as well as fractures and broken bones or teeth | - Unintended/unwanted pregnancy |
- Abortion/unsafe abortion | |
- More serious injuries, which can lead to disabilities, including injuries to the head, eyes, ears, chest, and abdomen | - Sexually transmitted infections, including HIV |
- Pregnancy complications and miscarriage | |
- Gastrointestinal conditions, long-term health problems, and poor health status, including chronic pain syndromes. | - Vaginal bleeding or infections |
- Chronic pelvic pain | |
- Death, including femicide and AIDS-related death | - Urinary tract infections |
- Fistula (a tear between the vagina and bladder, rectum, or both) | |
- Painful sexual intercourse | |
- Sexual dysfunction | |
Mental | Behavioural |
- Depression | - Harmful alcohol and substance use |
- Sleeping and eating disorders | - Multiple sexual partners |
- Stress and anxiety disorders (e.g. post-traumatic stress disorder) | - Lower rates of contraceptive and condom use |
- Self-harm and suicide attempts | |
- Poor self-esteem |