ABSTRACT
Domestic violence often begins during pregnancy and presents considerable risks to women and their unborn children. Babies and very young children can suffer considerably as a result. The effects may include:
• death of the baby due to premature labour, miscarriage or forced termination • poor foetal growth and consequent effects on brain development • difficulties in developing secure attachments • eating difficulties and, in extreme cases, failure to thrive • behavioural difficulties – anger, aggression and impulsivity; a more extreme startle
response or, conversely, quiet, passive and less responsive behaviours • emotional distress such as clinginess, restlessness, irritability, nervousness and
crying • problems with socialising and sharing • distress and confusion • fear of new people and situations; fear of the perpetrator • developmental regression (especially in toileting and language) • sleep disturbances, including nightmares.
