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Double the Danger Twice the Threat
The Facts:
- Pregnant and recently pregnant women are more likely to be
victims of homicide than any other cause of death.
- A significant proportion of all female homicide victims are
killed by their intimate partners.
- Domestic violence during pregnancy puts your life and the life
of your baby at risk.
- Domestic violence is the number one cause of injury to women.
- Abusive partners do not stop their violence after the baby is
born.
- Abusive partners do not become good fathers after the baby is
born.
Domestic violence can happen to anyone: women of all ages, races,
religions, educational backgrounds, income levels, and in every part of
the county. You are not alone and it is not your fault.
If you are a victim of domestic violence and are pregnant, you and
your baby are at high risk of injury or murder.
No matter what form of domestic violence your abusive partner has
chosen to use against you, he is affecting the emotional and physical
welfare of yourself and your baby. It is also important to note that
after the baby is born your abusive partner is not going to stop abusing
you or your newborn. Abusive partners do not magically become good
fathers after the baby is born. In fact, domestic violence is the number
one predictor of child abuse.
Physical Effects of Violence During Pregnancy: (From
the American Medical Association)
- Insufficient weight gain
- Vaginal/Cervical/Kidney infections
- Vaginal bleeding
- Abdominal trauma
- Hemorrhage
- Increase of chronic illness
- Complications during labor
- Delayed prenatal care
- Miscarriage
- Low birth weight
- Ruptured membranes
- Separation of the placenta
- Uterine infection
- Fetal bruising, fractures, and blood clots
Other Risks: (More specifically to mom)
- Stress
- Depression
- Alcohol and drug abuse
- Physical injuries
- Suicide
- Murder
You and your baby are at risk of emotional and
physical harm. |