Being pregnant and having a baby can be stressful. For some families and couples, this is when family violence starts.
If you feel unsafe because of the actions of a partner or family member, it’s important that you get help. Talk to your midwife (or specialist doctor), your doctor or practice nurse, or your Well Child Tamariki Ora nurse if you are feeling unsafe at home.
You can also call 0800 456 450 for self-help information and to connect with services in your area, or visit the Family Violence – It’s not OK website.
Family violence puts you and your baby in danger. Your midwife (or specialist doctor), your doctor or practice nurse, or your Well Child Tamariki Ora nurse can talk to you about family violence. They want to help keep you and baby safe. Someone in your family may also be able to support you.
What is family violence?
Any action that makes you or your baby feel controlled or afraid is not OK. Everyone in a family should feel safe and valued.
Family violence has a big impact on you and on your baby’s health, development and behaviour.
Family violence is being:
- hit, bitten, hurt or pushed
- made to feel that everything you do is wrong
- made to feel afraid by your partner or other family member
- forced to have sex or do something you don’t want to do
- kept from your family or friends
- stopped from making your own decisions or choosing how to spend your money.
You can visit the Family Violence – It’s not OK website to find out more about keeping you and your family safe.
