No form of abuse is okay, be it physical or emotional. Some women get abused by their partners. Abuse usually gets worse during pregnancy.  An abusive partner may cause you emotional pain through name calling or constantly blaming you for something you haven’t done. He may also control you by not allowing you to see your family and friends or always tell you what to do. This may lead the victim to be depressed or engage on unhealthy habits such as smoking or drinking.

Physical abuse may involve slapping, hitting,  pushing or kicking. The abusive partner may aim these blows at the belly of a pregnant woman. This type of violence harm you , it also poses a great risk to your unborn child. It can lead to a miscarriage or vaginal bleeding. Your baby may be born too soon and as a result have low birth weight or physical injuries.

What causes abuse during pregnancy ?

 
Pregnancy can have a toll on people and cause stress. It is however in no way okay to abuse your partner because you are stressed. Some of the causes of abuse  include the following :

• angry because the pregnancy was not planned
• financial stress
• jealousy if the partner shift attention from you to the baby

How can you tell if your relationship is abusive ?

 
If your answer to any of these questions is yes, then you are in an abusive relationship.

• does my partner cause harm or pain to my body ?
• is my partner becoming more violent as time goes on ?
• does my partner make me feel bad about myself ?
• does my partner blame me for his actions ?
• has my partner promised never to hurt me again but still does ?

What can i do if i am in an abusive relationship ?

 
Accepting that you are in an abusive relationship is the first step to helping yourself.

You then have to inform someone you trust.  This person could be a friend, family member, health care professional or clergy man. They may be able to put you in touch with the  crisis hotline, legal aid program, shelter for protection against your partner or domestic violence program.

You also need a safety plan. This include the following :

• learn the numbers of the local police and health care center just incase he hurts you. Call 911 immediately if you need medical help. Be sure to get a copy of the police and medical report in case you want to file charges against him
• save some extra cash and put together important documents or items should you need them. These include drivers license, medical record, check books, prescription medication and social security card
• find a safe place to stay. This could be with a trusted friend, family member or neighbor
• pack a suitcase with toiletries, extra clothing for you and your kids and extra set of keys to the house or car

 
NOTE

Nobody deserves to be physically or emotionally abused. Know the signs of abuse and get help immediately. You do not need to feel bad about leaving. Your life and that of your baby depends on it….

Call the National  domestic violence hotline: (800) 799-SAFE (7233) or (800) 787-3224 TTY.