However, many women report the abuse beginning after becoming pregnant. For teens in abusive relationships sexual violence and physical violence are often connected. Pregnancy in a young teen girl may be a warning sign that she is being sexually abused. Many teens who have experienced CSA don't believe that they can control what happens to them or their bodies. They may have difficulty making choices that prevent them from exposure to further abuse or unintended sexual consequences, such as pregnancy or STDs.
Abuse affects the health of both the mother and the baby.
Many abused women begin prenatal care late in their pregnancy which increases the chances that their baby will be born low birthweight. Low birthweight babies are at high risk of dying within their first year. Premature contractions Premature rupture of water bag or tearing of the uterine lining Infection Abuse during pregnancy also increases the mother's stress levels. Stress can cause the body to release the hormones adrenaline or noradrenaline . Stress also affects the mother's ability to take care of herself during her pregnancy.