Fetal abuse

Child Abuse Negl. 1997 Feb;21(2):181-6. doi: 10.1016/s0145-2134(96)00143-3.

Abstract

The possible occurrence of fetal abuse in expectant mothers has received little attention in either clinical practice or in research. Five cases with reported fetal abuse are presented. Each case suffered from depression and four of the five women had unplanned pregnancies and had considered a termination of pregnancy. Other possible factors associated with fetal abuse included: denial of the pregnancy, ambivalence towards the pregnancy, previous postpartum depression, and relationship difficulties. Enquiry of possible fetal abuse in pregnant women should be made, particularly if a depressive illness is demonstrated. The relationship between fetal abuse and subsequent child abuse remains unclear.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Child Abuse*
  • Depressive Disorder / etiology*
  • Female
  • Fetus*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / psychology*
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Pregnancy, Unwanted / psychology*
  • Self Mutilation