Urgent Rise: Domestic Violence Among Pregnant Women Surges 58%

UPDATE: Alarming new data reveals that the number of pregnant women experiencing domestic violence at the National Maternity Hospital has surged by an astonishing 58% over the past three years. This urgent trend, confirmed in the hospital’s 2024 annual report, highlights a growing crisis that demands immediate attention.

The medical social work department reported 352 active cases at the start of 2024, with a staggering 940 new referrals throughout the year—up from 326 cases and 870 referrals in 2023. The sharp increase from 258 cases and 775 referrals in 2022 underscores a critical rise in need driven by domestic violence, substance use, and homelessness.

Mary Brosnan, the director of midwifery and nursing, stated, “The increased demands stem from the level of need in society, driven by domestic violence, substance use, or homelessness, all of which are increasing annually.” This statement encapsulates the urgent challenges facing vulnerable populations today.

The medical social work department specifically assisted 106 women suffering from domestic violence in 2024, a significant rise from 92 women in 2023 and 67 women in 2022. Notably, seven of these families were already known to Tusla, indicating a concerning level of risk to their children. Furthermore, 18 families faced homelessness directly linked to domestic violence, with 48 families requiring active support from local authorities.

In an encouraging development, the department helped 15 families access refuge accommodation and referred 42 women to the Women’s Aid maternity project outreach support service. A spokeswoman for Women’s Aid noted they supported 188 women in 2024 through their outreach services across three Dublin maternity hospitals.

This maternity outreach initiative, emerging from a successful collaboration with the Rotunda Hospital, Coombe Hospital, and Cork University Maternity Hospital, aims to provide comprehensive support to pregnant victims of domestic abuse. “What should be a joyful time in a woman’s life can be marred by serious physical assaults and persistent abusive behaviors,” the spokeswoman emphasized.

The impacts of domestic abuse during the perinatal period are profound, with targeted assaults significantly increasing the risk of both maternal and fetal complications. The hospital’s report also shows that the medical social work department provided specialized support for pregnant women with substance abuse issues, assisting 114 women in 2024—up from 99 in 2023 and 64 in 2022.

Due to heightened risks, 31 families were referred to Tusla for additional support. Most babies from these families were discharged home with safety plans, although four babies were placed in alternative care.

The department also engaged with 231 women through its inclusion health service, targeting marginalized communities including homeless Roma and Traveller families and those seeking asylum.

As this crisis unfolds, the urgent need for increased awareness and resources is clearer than ever. The developing situation calls for immediate action and support for affected families, as the ripple effects of domestic violence continue to escalate across the community.

Stay tuned for more updates on this critical issue as authorities and organizations work to address the rising tide of domestic violence against pregnant women.