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Abuse During Pregnancy
Abuse does not end when a woman becomes pregnant. Abuse may begin or escalate during pregnancy (Health Canada, 1999). A 1993 Canadian study revealed that 21% of women abused by their partners were assaulted during their pregnancy. Of these women, 40% reported the abuse began when they became pregnant (Health Canada, 1999).
A pregnant woman is being abused, if her partner, spouse or friend:
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- Refuses to have sex on the basis that her body is unattractive.
- Limits her food intake.
- Threatens to leave her.
- Does not provide emotional support during her pregnancy.
Abuse during pregnancy can lead to:
- An increased risk of a miscarriage.
- Reproductive health problems, sexual transmitted diseases, including HIV, urinary tract infections.
- Development of substance abuse problems to cope with the abuse i.e. alcohol, illegal drugs, or use/increased use of tobacco.
- Emotional problems, such as depression and suicidal thoughts.
- Lack of self-care and poor nutrition.
- Difficulty bonding with the child.
- Poor weight gain.
- Eating disorders.
- Premature labour and delivery.
Abuse during pregnancy can have direct effects on the baby:
- Low birth weight
- Injuries to the newborn, such as skull and bone fractures
- Premature birth
- Death
Abuse does not end when the child is born; it continues if the abuser:
- Forbids her access to the baby.
- Does not assist nor support her when she and the baby return home from the hospital.
- Forces her to have sex before she is ready.
- Criticizes her parenting abilities.
- Threatens to take the baby away.
- Denies access to money for supplies, such as formula, diapers, etc.
Why the abuse? Reasons may include:
- The abuser feels he is competing for the woman's attention. The unborn child is seen as an intruder in the relationship.
- Dislikes her change in physical appearance.
- The abuser feels threatened. He thinks he will lose control and power over the woman. He may fear health care professionals, such as doctors and nurses, may influence her to leave the relationship.
If you or someone you know is being abused:
- Call Hiatus House 519-252-7781 (24 hours)
- Tell someone you trust, such as a family member, friend, doctor, or public health nurse
- Have a safety plan in place
Information was adapted from Health Canada's, A Handbook for Health and Social Service Professionals Responding to Abuse During Pregnancy, 1999.
For more information on abuse during pregnancy, see Health Canada's, A Handbook for Health and Social Service Professionals Responding to Abuse During Pregnancy, 1999.
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hppb/familyviolence/pdfs/pregnancy_e.pdf