First and foremost, if you’re pregnant and your partner is abusive, it’s essential to prioritize your safety. If you are in immediate danger, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 800.799.7233 or texting “START” to 88788.
This article will highlight steps you can take to protect yourself right now. However, contact Relate Care Clinic today if you’re looking for free, in-person pregnancy support services. All appointments are free and confidential.
Recognize the Abuse
Abuse in a relationship can happen in many forms, including verbal, emotional, physical, and sexual. Acknowledging that you are in an abusive relationship is the first step toward finding safety, but oftentimes, seeing the signs of abuse can be difficult—especially if the abuse is covert.
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, the following are common signs of abusive behavior:
- Telling you that you never do anything right
- Showing extreme jealousy of your friends or any time spent away from them
- Preventing or discouraging you from spending time with others, particularly friends, family members, or peers
- Insulting, demeaning, or shaming you, especially in front of other people
- Preventing you from making your own decisions, including about working or attending school
- Controlling finances in the household without discussion, such as taking your money or refusing to provide money for necessary expenses
- Pressuring you to have sex or perform sexual acts you’re not comfortable with
If you notice any of these signs from your partner, chances are you’re in an abusive relationship, and it’s important to consider how to move forward and away from your partner.
Seek Immediate Safety and Create a Plan for Moving Forward
Call emergency services (911 in the U.S.) if you are in immediate danger. Your safety and the safety of your unborn child are the most critical priorities right now.
If you aren’t in immediate danger but recognize the signs of abuse in your partner, thinking about how to move forward without your partner is essential. When thinking through a plan of action, answering the following questions can help:
- Where can I stay to get away from my partner? (a friend or family member’s house, domestic violence shelter, etc.)
- How can I break things off with my partner in a safe way? (i.e., consider telling your partner in a public place and with a support person)
- What support services are available to help me with my pregnancy? (Relate Care is here to help you find everything you need to feel supported right now.)
Focus on Your Well-Being While Pregnant
Navigating a pregnancy and abusive relationship can feel overwhelming, which is why self-care is especially crucial right now.
Ensure you can access mental health support (from a counselor, trusted friend, etc.) to help you process your emotions and reduce stress.
You can prioritize your physical health by maintaining a nutritious diet, getting adequate rest, and participating in light exercise.
We’re Here for You
At Relate Care, we understand what you’re going through. And we want you to know that you’re not alone. We’re here for you.
Whether you’re looking for safe housing, material assistance, or simply a safe space to talk, we’ve got you covered.
Contact us today to learn how we’re here to help.
