A pregnancy, whether wanted or unwanted, may worsen an already serious situation of a woman who is abused or who is at risk for abuse. Most experts believe that intimate partner violence (IPV) is caused by the partner’s need to control the actions of another. Abuse may begin or increase in pregnancy because the abuser has yet another person, the baby, to contend with.
If your partner is abusing you, verbally, emotionally or physically, you need to seek immediate help. With the birth or expected birth of your child, you have now the life of another to consider and must protect that life. Abuse is not your fault. You have done nothing to deserve this type of behavior. Knowing this, however, is not enough. You must escape the situation and get help.
Where to get help
A physician, a nurse, a nurse practitioner or a nurse-midwife are all specially trained to deal with situations involving intimate partner violence. Do not be surprised if you are asked questions about your relationship with your partner. As an example, you may be asked, "What happens when you and your partner have a disagreement?” Answer honestly, even if your answer will embarrass or otherwise make you uncomfortable.
If you are being abused, bring this fact to light during your first prenatal visit. Your health-care provider can refer you to a specific organization that can provide you with the necessary assistance.
You can also ask for a copy of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists pamphlet, "The Abused Woman." This pamphlet recommends that you set up a safety net by identifying a friend or family member you can turn to in an emergency, keeping car keys and extra money available and talking to someone about your situation.
Remember that abuse is not your fault and is never justified.
To obtain additional advice, call one of the numbers listed below or visit their websites. These are organizations that specialize in helping women who are living in abusive situations.
Numbers to call for help
Crisis Center North ..................................(412) 364-5556
Salvation Army Family Crisis Center.....(412) 394-4817
Washington Women's Shelter................(724) 223-9190 or (800) 791-4000
Womansplace.................. .........................(412) 678-4616
Woman's Place East.................................(412) 765-2661
Women's Center & Shelter.......................(412) 687-8005
Internet Resources
Crisis Center North
Domestic Violence Hotline Resource List
Domestic Violence: The Facts
National Coalition Against Domestic Violence
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh
Washington Women's Shelter
Womansplace
For information about obstetrics/gynecology services at WPAHS:
AGH Women's Health
WPH Women's Health
WPH-Forbes Women's Health
Last Updated: October 09, 2009