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. Violence During Pregnancy and Substance Use. A Prevalence Study. Adolescent Pregnancy and Sexual Abuse. Childhood Sexual Abuse, Adolescent Sexual Behaviors and Sexual Revictimization.