BACKGROUND:
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a growing global health concern, particularly affecting adolescents during a critical phase of emotional and social development. IPV at this stage can lead to long-term mental and physical health consequences. In Sweden, youth clinics are key access points for sexual and reproductive health services, where midwives play a central role. Despite their potential, midwives often lack standardized tools, training, and routines for identifying IPV, resulting in inconsistent practices and missed opportunities for early intervention.

OBJECTIVES:
This study aimed to explore midwives’ perceptions of the effectiveness of three distinct interventions—(1) use of a standardized questionnaire, (2) training with a virtual patient (VP), and (3) a combination of both—in enhancing their ability to identify adolescents exposed to IPV.

METHODS:
Five focus group interviews were conducted with 33 midwives from youth clinics in the Stockholm region, selected based on exposure to the intervention. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis, complemented by descriptive statistics derived from keyword entries in the electronic medical record system.

RESULTS:
All interventions improved midwives’ confidence in addressing IPV, particularly psychological violence, and increased engagement with male patients. The VP tool was perceived as useful for practicing communication strategies but was underutilized; participants emphasized the need for repeated use and integration into routine training. The questionnaire facilitated disclosures but was considered lengthy and difficult to implement consistently. Barriers included time constraints, emotional burden, and documentation challenges.

CONCLUSIONS:
The intervention shows promise in improving IPV detection in youth clinics. Future research should examine the long-term effects of repeated VP training, explore adolescents’ perspectives on IPV screening, and develop strategies for integrating these tools into routine care with adequate structural support.

KEY MESSAGE:
Midwives benefit from structured tools and training to identify IPV among adolescents, but sustainable implementation requires ongoing support and system-level integration. Poster session 3 (Group B)