Pregnancy can bring out the best and worst in those closest to you. While some of your friends and family may rise to the occasion and support you, others, unfortunately, can become emotional, pushy, and even abusive.
If you are in a relationship with an abusive partner, it’s critical to seek help. You deserve better than to live in fear of what your partner could do next. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline for immediate support and to find safety.
You can also schedule a free and confidential appointment at First Care Clinic for early pregnancy services and to talk with our caring team in a safe space.
Facing Reality in an Abusive Relationship
Maybe you and your partner have a long relationship history and have been together for many months or years. Or, perhaps you feel like he used to be another person, but he has changed.
No matter what is holding you in the relationship, whether it’s still loving this person or fear of leaving, you must face the reasons why you have been staying with him.
The reality is if he’s abusive, then he’s not the one for you. You deserve to feel safe, valued, and loved. While it can be difficult if you feel tied to this person, leaving can protect your safety.
Make a Plan to Leave
A safe exit strategy can require careful planning and help from others.
If no one knows about the abuse, you should share it with trusted family and friends so they can help. It can be hard to share, but the more people who can look out for you and your safety, the better.
If you live with your partner, it can become more complicated. Consider gathering your most important belongings into a go-bag. This bag should include important papers like your social security card, birth certificate, license, etc., along with cash, medications, clothes, and other necessities.
You could consider taking further action to protect yourself, like filing for a restraining order in cases of physical abuse, threats, or harassment or asking a police escort to accompany you to gather the rest of your belongings.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline can talk you through all of these steps to ensure you can leave safely, either by breaking up or moving out of your current home.
Pregnancy Considerations
Your pregnancy is not a reason to stay with an abusive partner. While it can be difficult to navigate your pregnancy and all the decisions that come with it, you are not alone.
First Care Clinic can help you by providing early pregnancy services and ensuring you know about available support, resources, and option information. You do not need to involve your abusive partner in your pregnancy or decisions.
Make a free and confidential appointment today. You are safe with us.