When the person who is supposed to love you is the one causing harm, it can be difficult to know where to turn. When an unplanned pregnancy is added to an already unsafe relationship, it can intensify feelings of fear, isolation, and uncertainty about what to do next. You may worry that the abuse could worsen or feel unable to talk to anyone about what you are experiencing.
If you are in an abusive relationship, your safety matters most. Contact the 24/7 National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential support and help exploring your options. You do not have to face this situation alone.
You Deserve Safety and Respect
If you are experiencing abuse during an unplanned pregnancy, it’s important to know that you deserve safety, support, and respect. Abusive relationships can affect your emotional, physical, and mental well-being, especially during pregnancy.
Domestic abuse can take many forms, including:
- Physical abuse: hitting, pushing, restraining, or causing physical harm.
- Verbal and emotional abuse: insults, intimidation, threats, humiliation, or constant criticism.
- Financial abuse: controlling money, preventing you from working, or limiting your independence.
- Reproductive coercion: pressuring or manipulating your pregnancy or abortion decision.
- Isolation: keeping you away from friends, family, or trusted support systems.
These are all signs of an unhealthy or abusive relationship. No one deserves to be threatened, controlled, or harmed. If your partner is making you feel unsafe during your pregnancy, confidential help and domestic violence support are available.
How Abuse Can Affect Your Health and Pregnancy
Abuse during pregnancy can put both your health and your baby’s at risk. High levels of stress, fear, or physical injury can contribute to complications such as preterm labor, low birth weight, or other serious concerns.
If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 right away. You can also reach the National Domestic Violence Hotline anytime at 800-799-7233 for free, confidential assistance. Trained advocates can help you create a safety plan, connect you with shelters, and guide you through the next steps.
Creating a Safety Plan and Support System
If you’re not safe at home, having a plan before you need it can be the most important thing you do. A personal safety plan doesn’t have to be complicated; it just has to be yours.
Consider these important safety planning steps:
- Identify a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor you can contact quickly in an emergency.
- Keep important items like identification, medications, cash, keys, and important documents in an easily accessible location.
- Memorize important phone numbers in case you lose access to your phone or communication devices.
- Research local domestic violence shelters, pregnancy support services, and community organizations that help women experiencing abuse.
- Develop a safe exit plan if you need to leave your home quickly.
At Life Options Clinic, we provide compassionate support for women facing unplanned pregnancies and unsafe relationships. We can connect you with local shelters, counseling services, pregnancy resources, domestic violence support, and legal assistance. You do not have to go through this alone.
A Safe Place to Find Support
We are here to listen and provide compassionate support. We’ll also help you explore your pregnancy options safely and privately, at your own pace.
Whether you need someone to talk to or connections to local resources, Life Options Clinic is here for you. You matter, and your safety is our top priority.
Schedule your free, confidential appointment today to speak with us and begin building a path toward safety and hope.