The intersection of the perinatal period and domestic violence
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The perinatal period, encompassing pregnancy up to the first two years postpartum, is a transformative and vulnerable time in a new mother’s life.
While it can be a time of joy, hope, and new beginnings, it can also be marked by challenges, one of which is the prevalence of domestic violence.
Domestic violence during this period has vast implications for the well-being of the mother, child, and other family members, including siblings. As heartbreaking as this is, there is an opportunity at the intersection of the perinatal period and domestic violence to shed light on its prevalence and impact and to raise awareness of the services and pathways that exist for women trying to seek help.
Domestic violence can manifest in physical, emotional, and financial abuse. During the perinatal period, these abusive behaviours can escalate or take on new dimensions, often increasing the vulnerability of the victim.
Research from the Institute of Family Studies reports that women are at an increased risk of experiencing violence from an intimate partner during pregnancy and that if domestic and family violence already exists, it is likely to increase in severity during pregnancy and the perinatal period.
Dr Yvonne Luxford, the CEO of Perinatal Wellbeing Centre, says that the perinatal period exposes women to profound physiological changes and increased physical demands. These changes alone can impact a woman’s emotional well-being, contributing to feelings of vulnerability.
“The perinatal period is a critical time for well-being, and conditions such as postpartum depression and anxiety can be exacerbated by the changes associated with pregnancy and the postnatal period.”
“Domestic violence during this important and fragile time exposes women to an increased risk of long-lasting mental health challenges that continue far beyond this time.”
“This can have devastating impacts for the mother and child, and raising awareness of the issue by providing referral and support services is key for women to receive the support they need.”
Despite the increasing prevalence of domestic violence during the perinatal period, individuals face barriers to disclosing their experiences. Fear of retaliation, social stigma, and concerns about the impact on their child’s well-being often prevent women from seeking help.
“Our service experienced an increase in domestic violence during the COVID lockdown period, and unfortunately, we are experiencing a similar increase with the cost-of-living crisis.”
However, there is hope. Canberra and the surrounding region offer excellent Domestic Violence support services. Keeping in contact with your healthcare provider/s also plays a significant role in addressing domestic violence. Most government and private healthcare services now provide routine screening for domestic violence during prenatal and postnatal visits.
“Raising awareness of this important issue and providing the correct training for healthcare staff is vital in recognising the signs of abuse, responding empathetically, and connecting victims with appropriate resources is essential in assisting expectant and new mothers experiencing domestic violence.”
The Perinatal Wellbeing Centre Canberra wholeheartedly supports the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
If you are reading this and are looking for help, please reach out to one of the resources listed below:
- dvcs.org.au
- police.act.gov.au
- meridianact.org.au
- respect@ywca-canberra.org.au
- 13yarn.org.au
- The CRCC crisis line (02) 6247 2525
- perinatalwellbeingcentre.org.au (for assistance with Domestic violence referral services and mental health and wellbeing)
