Background Women experienced violence in many different forms. It may be physical, sexual, psychological, economical, social and cultural abuse but most commonly is the combination of these. Studies have shown that the rate of intimate partner violence (IPV) against women is still a public health problem. It has both physical and psychological consequences to the victim.

Description of the problem This study as conducted with the aim of determining the prevalence, background characteristics of women and perpetrators and severity of injury.

This was a hospital based cross sectional descriptive study among 6914 women, above 15 years of age attended to the ER, Yangon General Hospital. 134 women who were due to intimate partner violence were interviewed by trained persons using a structured questionnaire.

Results The findings showed the rate of IPV against women is 1.94% and occurred commonly in young aged of 21–30 years. Alcohol use of male partner was significantly associated with violence. The nature of physical injuries ranged from minor injuries such as abrasions or bruises to major conditions as fractures and internal organ injury. Women with low education and socioeconomic status were more commonly to be committed by their intimate partners.

Conclusion The findings indicate that prevalence of IPV against women is increasing and commonly occurred in young age. The majority of women who experienced IPV have low socioeconomic and education status. There is strong correlation of IPV with alcohol usage of male partner. Prevention of IPV against women should be an urgent public health priority. There should be policies and laws which limits people from alcohol abuse. Health policy makers should plan for possible interventions on prevention of intimate partner violence including provision of education. Health care providers need to be sensitised to the issues of intimate partner violence in order to recognise and treat early.