What factor increases the likelihood of violence against pregnant women?

Heightened detection of abuse is a significant factor that increases the likelihood of violence against pregnant women because it often reveals previously hidden patterns of abuse that may not have been evident before pregnancy. When a woman is pregnant, healthcare providers may be more vigilant about assessing for signs of abuse during prenatal visits. This increased scrutiny can uncover existing violence or escalate the situation if the abuser perceives that help is being sought. Additionally, pregnancy itself can act as a stressor in an already volatile relationship, prompting negative reactions from the partner if they feel threatened by the changes in the woman's life or their own feelings of associated inadequacy or loss of control.

In contrast, while physical health declines, financial stress, and isolation from support systems can contribute to a higher risk of violence generally, they do not specifically drive the increased likelihood of violence as directly as heightened detection of abuse. These factors are often interrelated and can influence violence risk, but it is the awareness and recognition created by heightened detection that particularly influences the dynamics around violence against pregnant women during this vulnerable time.