Physical violence against pregnant women: Epidemiological and medico-legal aspects at the Regional Hospital of Conakry

Physical violence against pregnant women is a major public health concern, particularly in settings where sociocultural norms contribute to its underreporting. This study aims to describe the epidemiological and medico-legal characteristics of physical violence among pregnant women in Conakry. A prospective descriptive study was conducted from 11 November 2024 to 13 June 2025 at the Medico-Legal Unit. Data were collected using a standardized form covering sociodemographic characteristics, circumstances of violence, perpetrator profiles, and medico-legal findings. This study provides a clear and structured description of the epidemiological, contextual, and medico-legal aspects of physical violence against pregnant women examined in medico-legal consultations in Conakry. Among the 1,045 medico-legal consultations recorded during the study period, 50 cases involved pregnant women (4.8%), allowing a structured descriptive analysis of victim characteristics, circumstances of violence, and medico-legal findings. Most victims were aged 21–30 years (74%), married (90%), and had low educational levels. Violence occurred mainly during the second trimester (76%) and at the conjugal home (52%). Perpetrators were predominantly young partners (20–40 years), frequently under the influence of alcohol or drugs (84%). Contusions (48%) and wounds (26%) were the most common injuries. Obstetric complications included threatened preterm labor (6%) and one case of placental abruption. Physical violence against pregnant women in Conakry remains frequent and underreported. Strengthened multidisciplinary care, awareness strategies, and zero-tolerance policies are needed to protect maternal and fetal health.