ABSTRACT
Domestic abuse is widespread in United Kingdom (UK) society and its effects on families profound. This chapter discusses domestic abuse experienced by women in pregnancy, with some suggestions as to how midwives can help to ensure women who experience violence receive the appropriate support. It explores the social context of domestic abuse in the UK, from both a historical and present-day perspective, and the effects it has on women and their experience of pregnancy. While it is acknowledged that women abuse men, the chapter focuses on female abuse. It is widely accepted that the vast majority of violence in domestic relationships is perpetrated by men against women and their children. To understand the context of domestic abuse it is important to first comprehend the context of men and women's lives within society and explore the roles they play to fulfil society's expectations.
