Intimate Partner Violence

Intimate partner violence (also referred to as domestic violence) is any violence by an intimate partner through physical, sexual, or emotional abuse and controlling behaviors. Abuse can begin or escalate during pregnancy, and cause harm to the mother and baby.

Risks During Pregnancy

Intimate partner violence is associated with multiple risks for the mother and the baby that include:

  • Homicide (to the mother or baby)
  • Suicide
  • Substance abuse during pregnancy
  • Delayed prenatal care
  • Low birth weight
  • Preterm labor
  • Miscarriage
  • Injury
  • Depression
  • Difficulties bonding with child
  • Lower rates of breastfeeding

Questions to ask yourself to determine if you might be in abusive relationship: 

  • Has my partner caused harm or pain to my body?
  • Does my partner threaten me or the baby?
  • Is my partner becoming more violent?
  • Does my partner blame me for how he acts?
  • For more information on what to look for visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline, Warning Signs of Abuse.

Safety Plan

  • Identifying abuse is the first step in getting help for you and your baby. Having a safety plan can help lower your risk of getting hurt by your partner. Make sure to share this information with someone you trust if possible. Every plan looks different and should tailor your needs and environment. Below are things to consider when making your safety plan:
  • List of names and numbers to call in case of an emergency. It is probably safer to memorize these numbers if anything were to happen to your phone.
  • Store extra cash and documents or items in a safe place to gather and take quickly.
  • Become familiar with domestic violence centers near you. These centers provide information and assistance to help with domestic violence.
  • Document incidences whenever possible.
  • For more information or assistance in creating a safety plan visit:
  • The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides services to plan for safety. This includes an Interactive Safety Plan, Internet Safety, Supporting Your Children and Pet Safety.
  • Create a Safety Profile with Smart911. By creating a profile 911 dispatchers are given background information about your situation. This can possibly help you in a situation where you are unable to be vocal about your situation in an emergency. It is FREE!
  • If you need assistance, hotlines are available for resources. If you need medical attention or in immediate danger call 911.
  • Illinois Violence Hotline provides safety assistance to domestic violence victims throughout Illinois and is available 24/7. Services include locating programs located throughout Illinois, safety planning, legal advocacy, temporary food and housing and more. Visit, Domesitic Violence Agencies by City to find a center near you.
  • Phone:877-863-6338
  • Text: 877-863-6339
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline provides a free and confidential assitance available 24/7. Their website also provides information on identifying abuse, other services include planning for safety, local resources and supporting others.
  • Phone: 1 (800) 799- 7233
  • Text: 1 (800) 787- 3224