gynecology and obstetrics
Domestic Violence
Management of Domestic Violence (Intimate Partner Violence)
(See alsoResponding to Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Violence Against Women: WHO Clinical and Policy Guidelines.) In cases of domestic violence, the most important consideration is safety. During a violent incident,victims should try to move away from areas in which they can be trapped or in which the perpetrator can obtain weapons, such as the kitchen, although doing so may not be possible. If they can, victims should promptly call 911 or the police and leave the house. Victims should have any injuries treated and documented with photographs. They should teach their children not to get in the middle of a fight and when and how to call for help. Developing a safety plan is important. It should include where to go for help, how to get away, and how to access money. Victims should also make and hide copies of official documents (such as children’s birth certificates, social security cards, insurance cards, and bank account numbers). They should keep an overnight bag packed in case they need to leave quickly. Sometimes the only solution is to leave the abusive relationship permanently because domestic violence continues, especially among very aggressive perpetrators. Also, even when physical abuse decreases, psychologic abuse may persist. The decision to leave is not simple or easy. Victims often feel unable to leave an abusive relationship for multiple reasons, including fear of retaliation and economic dependence on the abuser. After the perpetrator knows the victim has decided to leave, the victim’s risk of serious harm and death may be greatest. At this time, victims should take additional steps to protect themselves and their children—for example, by obtaining a restraining or protection order (although such an order does not guarantee safety). Help is available through shelters for domestic violence survivors (including those in LGBTQ+ communities), support groups, the courts, and a national hotline (1-800-799-SAFE or, for TTY, 1-800-787-3224). TheNational Domestic Violence Helplinealso has chat options if the victim is unable to make a voice call. 