Domestic violence 'doubles risk of premature birth'

Survey into detrimental effects of abuse on pregnant women highlights importance of swift preventative action, says survey

Domestic violence by a partner or ex-partner during pregnancy doubles the risk of pre-term birth and low birth weight, according to a study.

Researchers from the University of Iowa also found that domestic violence, which includes physical, sexual, financial, psychological or emotional abuse, slightly increased the risk of a baby being small for gestational age.