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Signs of Abuse During Pregnancy and How to Get Help

Could This Be Abuse? 

Signs of Abuse During Pregnancy and How to Get Help 

“He didn’t mean it; he was just stressed.” 

“He always apologizes afterward, so it’s okay.” 

“It’s usually my fault because I overreact and probably deserve it.” 

If you’ve ever thought or said these words, it might be time to examine your relationship and consider ways to protect yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. 

Abuse is a growing and often hidden problem. We can sometimes explain away red flags because accepting the truth feels too scary. But ignoring signs of abuse can be dangerous for both you and your family.  

Here are a few signs of physical or sexual abuse: 

  • Any hitting, pushing, choking, restraining, or throwing objects 
  • Forced or pressured sex, especially when you say no or feel unsafe 
  • Injuries explained away as “accidents” 
  • Incidents worsening over time or becoming more frequent  

As you may know, abuse isn’t just physical. Many people don’t recognize it at first because it can be subtle or mixed with love and apologies. Emotional manipulation, verbal attacks, threats, control, and isolation are all real examples of abuse. If you’ve been doubting yourself, that’s a normal response, but it doesn’t mean you’re wrong.  

Here are some emotional and psychological warning signs to look out for: 

  • Feeling afraid of your partner’s reactions, moods, or anger 
  • Being constantly criticized, belittled, or blamed 
  • Losing confidence, feeling worthless, ashamed, or confused 
  • Your partner controls who you see, what you wear, or how you spend money 
  • Excessive jealousy or accusations of cheating from your partner  
  • Feeling isolated from friends, family, or support systems 
  • Threats from your partner (to leave, to take the kids, to harm themselves, to ruin your reputation) 

How to Seek Help from Abuse  

1. Tell Someone. 

    • If you are currently experiencing any of these signs, a good first step is to tell someone you trust like a family member, friend or coworker. You don’t have to give every detail, simply communicating that you don’t feel safe in your relationship is enough. Having one person who knows can make you feel less isolated.   

2. Prioritize Safety. 

    • You don’t have to decide right now whether you will leave. Instead, prioritize the safety of you and your child over long-term decisions. Plan ahead by keeping important documents, money, medications, or clothes in a secret place. Identify a code word with someone you trust. 

3. Reach out for confidential support.

    • If you think you might be experiencing abuse and you are currently pregnant but talking to someone you know feels risky, we are here to help. We have trained advocates and licensed counselors who will listen, help you process what is happening, and talk through a plan.  

Remember, you don’t have to have everything figured out to ask for help. We offer free services here at Prestonwood Pregnancy Center, including counseling. We’re here to listen and walk this road with you. Book an appointment today at one of our three locations in Richardson, South Dallas or Fort Worth.  

Your bravery could make all the difference.  

*If you feel that you are in immediate physical danger, prioritize getting to a safe place and contact emergency services. You can also call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or text START to 88788. 

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