Pregnancy can be a period of increased risk for domestic abuse, with new research and survivor accounts highlighting a troubling rise in controlling and violent behavior during this time. In England and Wales, estimates suggest that around 30% of domestic abuse cases begin during pregnancy, although underreporting likely means the true figure is higher. Each year, approximately 20,000 instances of domestic abuse are reported to maternity services across England.

Experts emphasize that pregnancy itself does not cause abuse, but it can serve as a trigger or context for escalating coercion, control, and violence. Abusive partners may intensify behaviors such as isolating the pregnant individual from family and friends, monitoring their movements, restricting access to healthcare, and exerting financial control. Physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as jealousy and resentment directed at the unborn baby, are also common.

Evie, a survivor interviewed for this research, described how her partner’s controlling behavior worsened after learning of her pregnancy. Initially engaging in “lovebombing” with gifts and affection, his control soon escalated to constant surveillance, including demanding she carry a baby monitor so he could watch her remotely. By her seventh month, physical violence had begun. Despite repeated apologies from her partner, who cited anxiety as a cause, the abuse continued, and she ultimately secured a court-issued non-molestation order after further violent incidents. Her partner maintained some contact with their child under supervision but was barred from contacting her.

Riley, another survivor, reported her partner’s rapid obsession with having children early in their relationship, quickly followed by emotional abuse characterized by verbal insults, manipulation, and intimidation. The violence escalated to physical threats and eventually life-threatening assaults, including strangulation and rape. Her abuser was convicted and is currently serving a prison sentence. She highlighted how fear of further violence and the potential removal of her baby prevented her from seeking help earlier.

Mental health professionals note that abusive partners often perceive the unborn child as a threat to their control and authority. Dr. Panos Vythoulkas, a perinatal clinical psychologist, explained that abusers may resent the attention the pregnancy attracts or view the baby as a rival for affection. Financial pressures and increased isolation during pregnancy can compound vulnerability, making it harder for victims to leave abusive relationships.

Research into maternal deaths and pregnancy loss linked to domestic abuse reveals the severity of the issue. Between 2017 and 2021, at least 223 women in England and Wales suffered pregnancy loss associated with domestic violence. Domestic abuse is documented in 43% of maternal deaths within the first postnatal year, with suicide identified as the leading cause of death during that period. Survivors also recount feelings of hopelessness and suicidal ideation after childbirth.

Children born into abusive environments can face long-term consequences, including developmental conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and brain injuries sustained during pregnancy. Domestic abuse organizations advocate for enhanced training of healthcare professionals in perinatal services to recognize early signs of abuse and intervene effectively.

Both survivors and support groups warn that by the time abuse is fully recognized, leaving the relationship often carries significant risk. Continued education, early identification, and accessible support services remain critical to protecting pregnant individuals and their children from domestic violence.