Domestic violence during pregnancy
In most intimate relationships, conflicts are resolved through discussion and negotiation without affecting the physical and psychological integrity of the partners. However, in some relationships, one of the partners uses violence to control and gain power over the other.
Violence can take root gradually and intensify over time. It can occur in any kind of intimate relationship, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. It can occur during the relationship or in the context of separation.
Some people, mainly women, experience domestic violence during pregnancy. In fact, one in ten women report having experienced one or more episodes of violence during pregnancy. In most cases, domestic violence continues after the baby is born.
Violent behaviours in intimate relationships
For example, your partner:
- Constantly criticizes your tastes and abilities
- Puts down your family and friends, or forbids you from seeing them
- Monitors your movements, activities, and communications (calls, text messages, emails)
- Forces you to have sex, even if you don’t want to
- Shoves or pushes you
- Threatens to hurt you or your children
- Refuses to give you a say in financial decisions or controls your spending
All forms of violence—psychological, verbal, physical, sexual, or economic—can have serious repercussions on your health and that of your child.
Domestic violence can be difficult to recognize, even for victims and their families. Fear, shame, or anxiety about being judged can keep some victims of violence isolated.
Since violence rarely stops by itself, breaking the silence is important for your safety and that of your child. Don’t wait to talk to someone you trust who can provide you with support. There are a number of resources available that offer confidential help.
You can get help from a health professional by contacting your CLSC or calling Info-Social (dial 8-1-1 and choose option 2). They can offer psychosocial services or refer you to local resources that can assist you.
SOS conjugal violence
Bilingual telephone service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
1-800-363-9010
sosviolenceconjugale.ca (in French only)