HomeHealth TopicsWomenIntimate Partner Violence
Back to Women
Intimate Partner Violence
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Women

Intimate Partner Violence

Intimate partner violence (IPV), or domestic violence, is abuse occurring in a romantic relationship that can take many forms and requires careful safety planning.

What is Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)?

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is abuse that happens in a romantic relationship, including current or former spouses or dating partners. It can be a one-time event or ongoing, and includes:

  • Physical violence: Hurting or trying to hurt a partner by hitting, kicking, or using physical force.
  • Sexual violence: Forcing or attempting to force a partner to take part in sexual activity without consent.
  • Emotional abuse: Threats, name-calling, put-downs, humiliation, and controlling behavior.
  • Economic abuse: Controlling access to money.
  • Stalking: Repeated, unwanted contact that causes fear, such as watching, following, or sending unwanted calls or texts.

Signs of IPV

If you suspect a loved one is experiencing IPV, watch for these signs:

  • The individual: Has unexplained cuts or bruises, avoids friends and activities, makes excuses for their partner, or looks fearful around their partner.
  • The partner: Yells at or makes fun of them, tries to control all decisions, checks up on them constantly, forces sexual acts, or threatens self-harm to prevent a breakup.

What to Do If You Are Experiencing IPV

Your safety is the most important concern. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. Other steps include:

  • Get medical care if injured or sexually assaulted.
  • Call a helpline: Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233) or 800-787-3224 (TTY). You can also chat online or text START to 88788.
  • Find local help: Contact organizations in your community.
  • Make a safety plan: Think about a safe place to go and what you need to leave.
  • Save evidence: Keep pictures of injuries or copies of threatening messages in a safe place.
  • Talk to someone you trust or consider a restraining order.

How to Help Someone Else

If you are helping a loved one, let them know they are not to blame. You should:

  • Call 911 if there is immediate danger.
  • Watch for signs of abuse and learn about local resources.
  • Set up a time to talk in a safe, private place.
  • Be specific about the behaviors that concern you.
  • Help them plan for safety if they are ready to leave.
  • Be patient, do not judge, and remain available to listen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Even if the injury seems minor, get evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Request a full physical exam, documentation of injuries (photos or written notes), and testing for sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy if relevant. Ask for a sexual assault forensic exam (often called a “rape kit”) if there was forced sexual activity. Keep all medical records; they can be important for legal actions and future health monitoring.
You can apply for a protective (restraining) order through your local courthouse or domestic‑violence advocacy center. Many states allow you to file online or in person without an attorney. Bring any evidence of abuse (photos, police reports, medical records). Once granted, the order can prohibit the abuser from contacting you, coming near your home, workplace, or children’s school, and may include provisions for temporary housing or custody. If you feel unsafe while filing, ask a shelter or hotline staff member to accompany you or to arrange a “court‑supported” filing.
Use age‑appropriate language and reassure them that the abuse is not their fault. For younger children, you might say, “Mommy/Daddy is very angry right now, and we need to stay safe.” For older kids, provide more detail while emphasizing safety plans and that you are seeking help. Encourage them to share their feelings and let them know you have trusted adults (teachers, counselors) they can talk to. Consider involving a therapist who specializes in family trauma.
Start by gathering essential documents (ID, birth certificates, insurance cards) and a small bag of cash or a prepaid card hidden in a safe place. Identify a trusted friend, family member, or shelter where you can stay temporarily. Change passwords on email and phone, and consider a “code word” with your support person to signal you need help. Set up a new phone line or use a public phone for emergency calls. If possible, keep a spare set of keys and a copy of your safety plan in a secure location outside the home.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

kontakt@hittavard.se

Ⓒ 2024. Alla rättigheter förbehålls av juxt ab

Sök
Om ossVillkor och policyVanliga frågorKontakta oss