Domestic violence against pregnant women can often be physical. Domestic violence during a pregnancy can include:. Roughly , pregnant women — or about 8 percent — experience abuse in the United States each year, research has found. And experts estimate that these numbers may be underreported. Intimate partner violence may begin or intensify during pregnancy, when having a baby triggers unexpectedly negative emotions in a woman's partner.
A partner might feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities of a baby, especially if the pregnancy was unplanned. He or she might also be experiencing intense stress over money and the long-term financial responsibilities of raising a child. Sometimes partners even become angry or jealous if a mom-to-be is focusing less on their relationship and more on the baby. Hitting, kicking, throwing objects or forcing you to engage in sexual acts all count as abuse — even if the abuser apologizes afterwards and promises not to do it again.
In what should be a joyful time in your life, domestic violence can have serious effects, causing both physical injuries and psychological harm. Abuse can affect your unborn baby too. Potential pregnancy complications include preterm delivery , low birth weight , placental abruption , uterine rupture, hemorrhaging, fetal injuries, and, in the very worst instances, miscarriage, stillbirth or death of the mother. An abused mom-to-be may be less likely to take care of herself during pregnancy by eating poorly, not seeking out prenatal care or abusing drugs or alcohol.
In many cases, an abuser may not stop being abusive to a pregnant partner or the baby once the child is born. Children who are exposed to domestic violence are at a greater risk of being neglected and abused themselves, and are more likely to develop health, behavioral and psychological disorders as they get older. Some abused women fear that no one will believe them or take them seriously.
Some feel as though they're the only ones going through this or that they themselves are the cause of the problems. If you are experiencing partner violence, check out these articles to learn about how to stay safe during your pregnancy.
Also, if you are planning for adoption and working with an agency you trust, we urge you to tell your social worker or counselor about your situation. They can help you make a plan for your safety as well as provide emotional support throughout this difficult time and afterward.
Together we can support moms and babies, especially those most in need. We're glad you're here. March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. We support research, lead programs and provide education and advocacy so that every family can have the best possible start. Building on a successful year legacy, we support every pregnant person and every family.
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It is never OK for someone to abuse you. This may help you identify some of these signs and start a conversation with the person you are concerned about.
You can also call one of the support organisations above to ask for advice. Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content. COPE's purpose is to prevent and improve the quality of life of those living with emotional and mental health problems that occur prior to and within the perinatal period.
Learn about signs, effects and what you can do if you're in an abusive relationship. Read more on healthdirect website. We support people affected by family and domestic violence by providing information, resources and referrals.
Read more on Medicare website. Get advice, help and support if you are experiencing online abuse as part of domestic and family violence. Read more on Office of the eSafety Commissioner website.
Read more on MensLine Australia website. The Equal and Together Alliance is a partnership of organisations, businesses, clubs and networks that are working across Queensland to build respect and equity within their workplaces and communities.
Read more on Women's Health Queensland website.
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