It's understandable to feel powerless if you're pregnant and in an abusive relationship. The stress you're experiencing from the pregnancy and your relationship is completely normal, but you're not alone and not stuck in this situation.

If you require immediate assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the National Domestic Abuse Hotline at (800) 799-7233 or 911 if you’re in immediate danger.

At Zoe, a Women's Center, we are committed to standing by your side, offering both emotional and practical support as you work toward rebuilding a life that is free and whole.

Find Some Place Safe

If your partner has exhibited violent behavior, both you and your pregnancy may be in peril, and you should get away as soon as possible without telling your partner where you are. Some options could include:

• Staying with a family member or friend

• Contacting a church for assistance

• Seeking a local women’s shelter where you can get help and resources

• Staying at a hotel for a short time until you can formulate a plan

Regardless of how he makes you feel, you deserve to feel safe, happy, and have hope for the future. 

Consider Whether to Contact Law Enforcement

If you are facing physical abuse and are in immediate danger, it's crucial that you seek help from law enforcement without delay. Abusive behavior is a crime, and law enforcement can help ensure your safety.

While it's understandable that you may not want to talk about your experience, especially if the physical assault happened recently, it's important to report the abuse so that you can find safety.

Seek Medical Treatment 

You might not want to have anyone in your personal space, but seeking medical treatment for physical and mental abuse is essential, especially if you’re pregnant.

Medical professionals are highly trained to treat survivors of domestic violence assault and will be gentle and respectful without doing anything you don’t want them to. 

Seek Healing and Make a Plan

You deserve to have a life free from fear and full of hope. 

If you live with an abusive partner, it may seem impossible to get out or overwhelming just to formulate an escape plan. But you are not alone! There are resources and people available to help you. 

You have done nothing to deserve abusive behavior and you and your unborn child are worth fighting for. 

The first step is to make the choice to leave and take control of your own life so that you can find healing and freedom.

At Zoe, a Women’s Center, we can help you develop a plan and connect you with local resources as you make decisions for your future. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential (according to Maine state law) appointment.