Help-Seeking Among Pregnant and Postpartum Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence: A Concept Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: This study analyzed help-seeking among pregnant and postpartum women (within 1 year of giving birth) who were experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV). The analysis identified key constructs and definitions that can inform nursing professionals working with IPV victims.

Methods: We applied Rodgers’ evolutionary concept analysis to a total of 36 publications.

Results: Help-seeking was characterized by five core attributes: use of medical and childcare support, disclosure of violence to nursing professionals, dialogue about IPV with trusted individuals, use of IPV counseling services, and accepting intervention for crisis. Antecedents included difficulty disclosing violence and fear of outside intervention, fear of husband’s control and violence, psychological and social barriers, knowledge of IPV and support services, awareness of support based on past experiences, closeness with nursing professionals who make it comfortable to disclose violence, and maternal recognition of IPV with a resolve to confront it. Consequences of help-seeking included progress toward separation, continued use of medical and childcare support alongside new assistance, a sense of security and confidence from being watched over, and disappointment and maintenance of the marital relationship.

Conclusions: Help-seeking was defined as a process that “involves disclosure of violence, dialogue about IPV, use of support services, and acceptance of intervention crisis, prompted by the presence of nursing professionals close to women throughout pregnancy and child-rearing, as well as maternal readiness to confront IPV.” The findings emphasize the importance of fostering environments that support disclosure, sustained involvement of nursing professionals, and long-term accompaniment through multidisciplinary collaboration in hospitals and communities.