Improving the health care of women living with domestic abuse.

To explore the healthcare experiences of women living with domestic abuse, specifically in relation to the primary care setting. A qualitative study was undertaken in Scotland, comprising semi-structured interviews with 17 women who had experienced domestic abuse. Data were analysed using a thematic framework. Three themes were linked to women's healthcare experiences: systems-based, interpersonal and psychological issues. Poor systems of communication sometimes fail abused women, and low self-esteem and fear of stigmatisation make it difficult for women to discuss abuse. Nurses in primary care settings can do much to support women who have experienced domestic abuse. Understanding the systems-based, interpersonal and psychological factors that influence women's healthcare experiences may be a vital part of this process.