Pregnancy is often seen as a time of joy and excitement, but for some women, it can also be a time of fear, stress, and uncertainty. Sadly, pregnancy is a known high-risk time for domestic abuse to begin or worsen. If you are pregnant and feeling unsafe in your relationship, know that you’re not alone – and that help is available. At Juno, we understand how frightening this experience can be, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Why Abuse Can Start or Get Worse During Pregnancy
Pregnancy brings big changes – emotionally, physically, and practically. For some abusers, these changes can trigger a need for more control. They may become jealous of the attention you’re giving to your unborn child, or they may feel threatened by your growing independence. In some cases, they may use the pregnancy itself as another tool to abuse and control. They may have wanted you to become pregnant so that they could ‘trap you.’ None of these are the actions of a loving, considerate partner. You deserve better.
Abuse can come in various forms. Some signs of abuse during pregnancy may include:
- Criticising your body or appearance
- Refusing to attend scans or appointments with you
- Controlling what you eat or do
- Pressuring you to make decisions about your pregnancy
- Using threats or physical violence, even towards your bump
- Isolating you from loved ones
It’s important to know that none of this is your fault. Abuse is a choice made by the abuser. You do not deserve to be treated this way.
The Risks for You and Your Baby
Domestic abuse during pregnancy can be incredibly harmful, both physically and emotionally. It can lead to health problems for both you and your baby, including:
- Miscarriage or premature birth
- Low birth weight
- High levels of stress and anxiety
- Problems bonding with your baby after birth
- Physical and emotional developmental issues for your baby as he or she grows up.
But it’s not just physical health that suffers. Living in fear during pregnancy can have long-term effects on your mental wellbeing. You might feel anxious, depressed, or unable to enjoy your pregnancy. You may feel very alone – but you’re not. Juno is here to help you feel safe, supported, and in control of your choices.
Why It’s Hard to Speak Up
It can be really difficult to talk about abuse when you’re pregnant. You may be worried about being judged, or feel ashamed that you’re going through this at such a sensitive time. You may fear that social services will get involved, or that no one will believe you.
At Juno, we understand these fears. Our team is friendly, supportive, and non-judgemental. We will listen to you, believe you, and help you make a plan that works for your situation – whether you want to leave, stay, or just need someone to talk to. You don’t have to have the answers right now as to what you want to do. And your feelings on this may change. But what will help is reaching out and talking to us. We are here for you.
Some of our team are survivors themselves, so they know what it’s like to feel scared, confused, and trapped. You are not alone, and we will never force you to do anything you don’t want to do.
What Juno Can Offer
We understand that every pregnancy and every situation is different. That’s why we offer tailored support, based on your needs. Whether you need emotional support, a safe place to stay, or help navigating the healthcare or benefits system, we’re here for you.
Juno offers:
- Confidential advice and emotional support
- Help with safety planning, especially if you’re worried about giving birth in an unsafe environment
- Access to emergency accommodation, including for pregnant women
- Support with appointments, benefits, and healthcare
- A team that treats you with kindness, dignity, and respect
We also work closely with midwives, health visitors, and other professionals to make sure you get the help you need safely and quickly.
Final Thoughts
If you are pregnant and experiencing abuse, please know that you are not alone. There is no shame in asking for help, in fact, it shows a great deal of courage and love for your baby. At Juno, we’re ready to support you in a way that feels safe and respectful. You and your baby deserve to be safe, cared for, and free from fear. Reach out to us. We are here for you, every day of the year, and every minute of the day and night.
Juno Support
Our helpline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Our staff are friendly, supportive, and non-judgmental. Some are survivors themselves and truly understand what you’re going through. You don’t have to go through this alone – we’re here to help, whenever you’re ready. You and your precious baby deserve a life free from abuse.
Calls to our helpline are free from landlines and mobile phones within the UK and do not appear on itemised bills. There is no pressure and everything is confidential.
Helpline: 0808 800 0340
Sometimes our helpline is busy and you might not get through the first time, so please try again. We will always call you back if you leave a message stating it is safe to do so and if you leave us a safe contact number in your message.
If you are hearing impaired, text “Relay/NGT” to 18001 0808 800 0340. This option is available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year.
You can also email us on [email protected] 9 am – 9 pm.
Please note, we may not be able to respond to emails straight away, but will try to reply within 24 hours.
National Help
If you’re further afield, you could contact other charities like Women’s Aid, who have instant messaging and email contact on their website: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline (0808 2000 247) also provide confidential support. They can help you make a safety plan, find safe housing, and access legal protections.
The deaf health charity Signhealth also runs a domestic abuse support service, DeafHope, using British Sign Language (BSL).
The Survivor’s Trust (for sexual abuse and assault support) – www.thesurvivorstrust.org