How Does Domestic Violence Affect Pregnancy? | Bella Women's Center

First things first: domestic violence is never your fault. No one deserves to be a victim of abuse; you deserve help, healing, and support.

Experiencing domestic violence during pregnancy means that you may be in even greater danger. Many abusers escalate their behavior when they learn their partner is pregnant, especially if the pregnancy was unplanned or they have no interest in parenting. You must seek safety as soon as possible.

What Are the Warning Signs of Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence takes on many forms, with the most common being:

Being hurt/physically abused
Being threatened or made to feel afraid by your partner
Forced to engage in sexual activity
Isolated from family or friends
Having your finances removed from your control

These patterns look different for everyone; even if you aren’t physically abused, you may still be a victim.

What Is at Risk in My Pregnancy?

Domestic violence can cause irreparable harm to the baby and your pregnancy’s health. If you are being hurt or threatened by your partner, you have a higher chance of:

Miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth
Injury to your uterus
Contracting dangerous vaginal infections from forced sexual activity
Increased first and second-trimester bleeding

Dangerous behavior can also increase the baby’s chances of developing emotional problems, falling behind in school, being physically and sexually abused, and more. You deserve to receive help.

What Can I Do to Protect Myself?

In many cases, time is of the essence. Call 911 or contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline if you are in immediate danger. The Hotline offers 24/7 confidential support at no cost to you. Talking to a trusted friend or family member about what you have been facing may also be helpful.

Packing a suitcase with essential documents, banking information, clothes, toiletries, and medication can help you to make a quick getaway. Leave the bag with a loved one if a dangerous situation occurs, and you need somewhere to go.

Lastly, don’t blame yourself. Going to a domestic violence shelter or friend’s house does not mean you have failed. You are worthy of love and respect. No one has the right to take that away from you.

I’d Like More Support.

At Bella Women’s Center, your safety matters to us. We can offer you confidential pregnancy services free of charge. You’ll receive the care, resources, and information you deserve.