Pregnancy is a time of life when women desperately need a cocoon of peace, safety, and stability in which to grow a healthy baby. Yet multiple studies show that mothers-to-be are very likely to experience physical, mental, and emotional assault from an intimate partner. Although statistics vary according to source, it is generally acknowledged that 8-20% of all pregnant women will be subjected to domestic violence.
An unwanted pregnancy may create anxiety, anger, or jealousy in a spousal partner. Frustration, financial difficulties, job security issues, and sexual tension can all contribute to an unhealthy emotional atmosphere in the home. Threatening behaviour or even hurtful comments are psychologically damaging and demoralizing for a pregnant woman resulting in feelings of depression, anxiety, loneliness, or worthlessness. Some partners may project passive/aggressive behaviour by withdrawing their support for the pregnant mother, refusing to participate in her pursuit for healthy eating habits and physical exercise, or by indulging in, or forcing the mother to indulge in, drugs and alcohol.
As a result, abused mothers-to-be may experience:
- Bleeding during the first and second trimesters
- Too much, or not, enough weight gain
- Anemia and malnutrition
- Miscarriages or pre-term labour
- High blood pressure, kidney or urinary tract infections
More aggressive abusive behaviour, such as hitting, hurting, kicking, slapping, grabbing, punching, or blunt force trauma may result in more dramatic injury such as fetal or maternal death.
Domestic violence is a stealthy and insidious beast. Although denial or embarrassment may prevent any victim from getting help in a timely manner, the psychological impact of pregnancy exacerbates the situation. The nesting instinct, an intense need for an environment of safety and stability, may short-circuit the ability of an expectant mother to admit a problem exists and limit, or even preclude, her ability to ask for help.
There is no shame or judgment in domestic violence. If you’re in need, please make the call to your local shelter, counselor, or friend. Get help. Remember, every survivor was once a victim.
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