Graphic from The Family Sunshine Center – Why should you care about domestic violence? Someone you care about is likely experiencing #DomesticViolence, whether you can see it or not. 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience severe physical violence from an intimate partner in their lifetime. #DVAM #WhyICare
BY SARAH STEPHENS
ELMORE/AUTAUGA NEWS
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and sadly news broke today about a pregnant woman from Prattville who was shot during a reported domestic violence incident just after midnight.
Our area is not immune to domestic violence, and/or domestic violence fatalities. In recent years there have been multiple cases in Autauga and Elmore counties of women killed by boyfriends/spouses/estranged spouses. But it is important to remember that men can be and are also abused, sometimes ending in their deaths as well.
Domestic violence has nothing to do with age, race, income, or religion. It can occur anytime, with anyone, and too often with people who choose not to talk about it, or involve law enforcement. However, even when law enforcement is aware of a problem, unless someone is willing to press charges often their hands are tied unless it involves serious injury, death, or people come forward with information.
All too often a case of domestic violence will be reported, but charges are later dropped by the victim.
While details about the overnight shooting of the pregnant Prattville woman are not available, it is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This information is timely, and it is hoped it will help educate, and shine light on the very real dangers of all forms of domestic violence.
The following information is taken from the Center of Hope and Safety and includes information directly related to domestic violence in pregnant women. Their website is
https://hopeandsafety.org/learn-more/domestic-violence-and-pregnancy/
Pregnant and recently pregnant women are more likely to be victims of homicide than any other cause of death.
The Facts:
A significant proportion of all female homicide victims are killed by their intimate partners.
Domestic violence during pregnancy puts your life and the life of your baby at risk.
Domestic violence is the number one cause of injury to women.
Abusive partners do not stop their violence after the baby is born.
Abusive partners do not become good fathers after the baby is born.
Domestic violence can happen to anyone: women of all ages, races, religions, educational backgrounds, income levels, and in every part of the county. You are not alone and it is not your fault.
If you are a victim of domestic violence and are pregnant, you and your baby are at high risk of injury or murder.
No matter what form of domestic violence your abusive partner has chosen to use against you, he is affecting the emotional and physical welfare of yourself and your baby. It is also important to note that after the baby is born your abusive partner is not going to stop abusing you or your newborn. Abusive partners do not magically become good fathers after the baby is born. In fact, domestic violence is the number one predictor of child abuse.
Physical Effects of Violence During Pregnancy:
(From the American Medical Association)
Insufficient weight gain
Vaginal/Cervical/Kidney infections
Vaginal bleeding
Abdominal trauma
Hemorrhage
Increase of chronic illness
Complications during labor
Delayed prenatal care
Miscarriage
Low birth weight
Ruptured membranes
Separation of the placenta
Uterine infection
Fetal bruising, fractures, and blood clots
Other Risks:
(More specifically to mom)
Stress
Depression
Alcohol and drug abuse
Physical injuries
Suicide
Murder
You and your baby are at risk of emotional and physical harm.
If you are in a domestic violence relationship, hope is available. There are multiple agencies and programs designed to remove you and your children from danger.
Locally, the Family Sunshine Center is one such agency. For more information, please visit their website at familysunshine.org
