Opinion Article, J Womens Health Vol: 13 Issue: 6

Violence Against Women: Health Consequences and Support Systems

Hvinas Geum^*

¹Department of Social Medicine and Community Health, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, India

*Corresponding Author: Hvinas Geum,
Department of Social Medicine and Community Health, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, India
E-mail: hvinas_ge.um@gmail.com

Received date: 26 November, 2024, Manuscript No. JWHIC-24-156657;

Editor assigned date: 28 November, 2024, PreQC No. JWHIC-24-156657 (PQ);

Reviewed date: 12 December, 2024, QC No. JWHIC-24-156657;

Revised date: 20 December, 2024, Manuscript No. JWHIC-24-156657 (R);

Published date: 27 December, 2024, DOI: 10.4172/2325-9795.1000530.

Citation: Geum H (2024) Violence against Women: Health Consequences and Support Systems. J Womens Health 13:6.

Description

Violence against women is a universal global issue that rises above cultures, societies and socioeconomic boundaries. It manifests in various forms, including physical, sexual, emotional and psychological abuse, deeply affecting the health and well-being of millions of women worldwide. The consequences of such violence are not limited to immediate physical injuries but extend to long-term health complications and socio-economic challenges that often trap women in cycles of abuse. One of the most immediate health consequences of violence against women is physical harm. Injuries such as fractures, damages and scratches are common among survivors, with some cases leading to severe disabilities or fatalities. Beyond visible injuries, the physiological toll of enduring abuse can lead to chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders and other stress-related illnesses. Sexual violence, a particularly traumatic form of abuse, exposes women to the risk of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV and accidental pregnancies, further complicating their physical health.

Psychological and emotional health is equally affected by violence. Survivors often experience deep mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and suicidal ideation. The stigma associated with abuse frequently exacerbates these conditions, isolating women from their communities and support networks. For many, the trauma of violence leads to difficulties in maintaining interpersonal relationships, diminished selfesteem and a widespread sense of helplessness. Violence against women also impacts maternal and reproductive health. Pregnant women subjected to abuse are at higher risk of miscarriage, immature labor and low birth weight infants. The stress and trauma of abuse can interfere with prenatal care, leading to adverse outcomes for both mother and child. Furthermore, forced sexual activity and the rejection of reproductive autonomy contribute to a cycle of poor health and limited access to family planning resources.

The socio-economic impacts of violence against women further compound the health consequences. Many survivors face financial instability due to loss of employment, restricted access to education or the inability to leave abusive environments. This economic dependence often limits their ability to seek medical care or access mental health services. The resulting barriers to healthcare spread the cycle of poor health outcomes and vulnerability. Support systems play an important role in addressing the health consequences of violence against women. Healthcare providers are often the first point of contact for survivors, making their role pivotal in identifying and responding to abuse. Training healthcare professionals to recognize signs of violence and provide trauma-informed care is essential in offering immediate support and linking women to appropriate services. Routine screening for intimate partner violence in healthcare settings can help identify survivors and initiate timely interventions. Legal and social support systems also contribute significantly to reduce the impact of violence on women’s health. Laws that criminalize violence and protect survivors are critical, but their enforcement must be coupled with accessible and culturally sensitive support services. Shelters, hotlines and counseling centers provide important resources for women escaping abusive situations, offering safety and pathways to recovery.

Despite progress in some areas, significant gaps remain in addressing violence against women and its health consequences. Limited resources, stigma and cultural barriers often prevent survivors from accessing support systems. Connecting these gaps requires a coordinated effort from governments, healthcare providers, nongovernmental organizations and communities. International frameworks, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), feature the importance of eliminating gender-based violence and promoting gender equality as key components of global development.

Conclusion

Violence against women is a multifaceted issue with profound health consequences that extend beyond the individual to impact families, communities and societies. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that combines healthcare, legal protections and community support. By recognizing the far-reaching impacts of violence and strengthening support systems, societies can work towards creating safer and healthier environments for all women.