The Role of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in Mediating Between Stress and Depression Among Pregnant and Childbearing Women

This study examines depression and intimate partner violence (IPV) among Israeli women during the COVID-19 pandemic’s second wave (which took place between June and October 2020). The participants were 240 pregnant and 310 nonpregnant women of childbearing age. No statistically significant differences were found between these groups with respect to the levels of stress, depression, and IPV. Forty percent (n = 220) of participants were classified within the clinical range of depression, and two-thirds (n = 376) reported experiencing IPV. Muslim women reported IPV at higher rates compared to Jewish women. Factors related to an elevated risk of depression included being Muslim, having lower income, being unemployed, having higher stress, and IPV. IPV mediated the stress–depression relationship. The findings emphasize the need for accessible screening tools and targeted intervention programs, particularly for minority populations.