Which women are more likely to be abused

In many couples, the man becomes more violent for the first time when the woman is pregnant. He may feel as though he is losing control because he cannot control the changes in her body. He may feel angry because she is paying more attention to the baby and less to him, or because she may not want to have sex with him. Also, many couples feel extra worried about money when they are expecting a new baby.

Women with disabilities are also more likely to be abused: Some men may feel angry that they did not get a ‘perfect’ woman. Men may think a woman with a disability is easier to control because she may be less able to defend herself.

Sources

• Burns, A. A., Niemann, S., Lovich, R., Maxwell, J., & Shapiro, K. (2014). Where women have no doctor: A health guide for women. Hesperian Foundation.
• Audiopedia ID: en020109