One in four women experience domestic abuse or domestic violence at some point in their lives. This may be physical, sexual, emotional or psychological abuse. Thirty percent of this abuse starts in pregnancy, and existing abuse may get worse during pregnancy or after giving birth.
Domestic abuse during pregnancy puts you and your unborn child in danger. It increases the risk of miscarriage, infection, premature birth, and injury or death to the baby. Find out about recognising the signs of domestic abuse.
Getting help
If you are pregnant and being abused, there is help. You can speak in confidence to:
- your GP
- midwife
- obstetrician
- health visitor
- social worker
Or you can call the confidential 24-hour National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247. This helpline is free, and run in partnership between Refuge and Women's Aid. If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
Find out more about getting help if you are experiencing domestic abuse.
