Abuse survivor perspectives on trauma inquiry in obstetrical practice

Arch Womens Ment Health. 2016 Apr;19(2):423-7. doi: 10.1007/s00737-015-0547-7. Epub 2015 Jul 21.

Abstract

Purpose: The objective of this study was to explore abuse survivor perspectives on optimal physician approaches to trauma inquiry in prenatal care.

Methods: Focus group involving six adult female abuse survivors.

Results: Five themes emerged for framing "safe" trauma inquiry: (1) a clear definition of trauma, (2) clear purpose for inquiry, (3) reassurance that inquiry was routine, (4) confidentiality, and (5) mention of helpful resources other than psychiatric therapy.

Conclusions: Explaining the purpose of trauma inquiry may be important for effectively engaging abuse survivors in obstetrics.

Keywords: Abuse; Disclosure; Obstetrics; Survivor perspectives; Trauma inquiry.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Adult Survivors of Child Abuse / psychology*
  • Adult Survivors of Child Adverse Events / psychology*
  • Child
  • Confidentiality
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Obstetrics*
  • Office Visits
  • Patient Preference
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians'
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Care / methods*
  • Referral and Consultation*
  • Truth Disclosure*