Domestic abuse can have deep and long-lasting effects on preconception health, affecting both physical and mental well-being, influencing reproductive decisions, and leading to poor pregnancy outcomes.
Control and coercion are also classed as domestic abuse and this can be present in pregnancy and reproductive health. View the definition of abuse on the gov.uk website.
Addressing domestic abuse as part of preconception care is crucial to protect the health of both the parent and the future child.
Abuse during pregnancy from a partner puts both the pregnant person and the unborn child at serious risk. It raises the chances of miscarriage, infection, premature birth, and even injury or death to the baby.
Women and pregnant people facing long-term abuse are more likely to develop chronic health problems like high blood pressure, digestive issues, or diabetes, all of which can make preconception and pregnancy health more complicated.
Sexual violence or coercion can increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which can affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes if left untreated.
Domestic abuse can also lead to mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), all of which harm preconception health. Struggles with mental health can make it harder for pregnant people to take care of themselves and engage in healthy behaviours.
In some cases, abusers may stop their victim from getting healthcare or talking to medical professionals.
Abuse can also cause emotional and mental health problems, such as stress and anxiety, which may affect the baby’s development.
Messages for professionals to share:
- advise women and pregnant people to contact their doctor or midwifery service soon as possible after they find out that they're pregnant
Referral to domestic violence support services, shelters, legal assistance, and mental health care is essential for women and pregnant people experiencing abuse. These services provide vital resources and safety options for survivors looking to leave abusive situations.
Further information
The Elm Foundation provides domestic abuse support services across Derbyshire irrespective of a person’s age, sex, ethnicity, disability, gender identity or immigration status, telephone: 08000 198 668 (24-hour helpline).
If you're experiencing domestic abuse, or know someone who is, you can contact the Derbyshire Domestic Abuse helpline , telephone: 08000 198 668 and you'll get help from someone close by. If it's an emergency, telephone: 999.
Refuge offers a variety of support for women experiencing domestic abuse. There is a 24 hour a day free phone national domestic abuse help line, telephone: 0808 2000 247.
If you’re experiencing domestic abuse Derbyshire Police , can put you in touch with other support organisations that understand your specific needs.
Crossroads Derbyshire offer a range of confidential support and advisory services to women, men, children and young people suffering the damaging effects of domestic abuse including:
- refuge for young women and children needing a safe place to stay
- outreach services for women and men
- community programmes for young people
- counselling for women and men
- specialist services for children
Derbyshire Victim Services has been created to support victims of crime, giving people access to the different types of help they may need from just one place. The aim is to ensure that every victim of crime or anti-social behaviour has access to the best possible support service.
SV2 - supporting victims of sexual violence sexual violence simply shouldn’t exist and no one should deal with it alone. Whilst sexual abuse exists, we’ll be here to support and empower the victims, inform the public and protect future generations.