Support for Patients Experiencing Domestic or Family Violence During Pregnancy

If you are pregnant and experiencing domestic or family violence, please know that you are not alone and help is available. Abuse is never your fault, and support can be accessed confidentially and safely.

Domestic or family violence can include physical harm, emotional abuse, controlling behaviour, financial control, sexual abuse, threats, or intimidation. Pregnancy can be a time when violence begins or escalates — this is sadly common, and it is not something you need to manage on your own.

Your Safety Comes First

If you are in immediate danger:

Call 000 right now.

Emergency services can help keep you and your baby safe.

Confidential Support Services (Australia)

1800RESPECT

📞 1800 737 732 | 🌐 Online chat available

• Free, confidential support 24 hours a day

• Specialist counselling for domestic, family and sexual violence

• Help with safety planning and referrals to local services

Lifeline

📞 13 11 14

• 24/7 crisis support if you are feeling overwhelmed, distressed, or unsafe

Safe Steps (Victoria)

📞 1800 015 188

• Family violence response centre for Victoria

• Support with crisis accommodation, safety planning, and referrals

Support Through Your Pregnancy Care

You can speak confidentially to:

• Dr Cole

• Your midwife

• Your GP

• Any of our clinic staff

Healthcare professionals are trained to support patients experiencing violence. They can:

• Listen without judgement

• Help you access specialist services

• Assist with safety planning

• Support both your physical and emotional wellbeing

You do not need to have physical injuries to ask for help.

If You Are Worried About Privacy

If you are concerned about being overheard or monitored:

• Use a trusted friend or family member’s phone

• Use online chat services rather than calling

• Clear your call history or browser history if needed

• Ask your healthcare provider to speak to you alone during appointments

Support services understand safety concerns and can help you plan a safe way to reach out.

Important Things to Know

• Domestic violence often increases during pregnancy

• Abuse can affect both your health and your baby’s health

• Support services are confidential and respectful

• Reaching out for help does not mean police will automatically be involved

• You deserve to feel safe, supported, and cared for

A Gentle Message

If you are experiencing abuse, or if something doesn’t feel right at home, help is available. Talking to someone — even for the first time — can be an important step toward safety and support for you and your baby.

If you would like assistance accessing support, please let a member of your healthcare team know.

Your wellbeing matters.