Midwives in Leicester's hospitals are receiving special training as part of a campaign to stop violence against pregnant women. The midwives from the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust will routinely ask all pregnant women about safety issues in the home.
According to the trust, the risk of violent abuse against women increases by a third during pregnancy.
About 450 of the county's midwives will be involved in the campaign.
Kathryn Gutteridge, consultant midwife at Leicester Royal Infirmary, explained domestic violence and abuse could have serious implications for an unborn child.
"Our new policy will ensure expectant mothers understand that violent abuse is a crime and, if they are being subjected to abuse, we will tell them where they can get help from."
She added: "Abuse isn't always about a fist in the face.
"There are many ways in which women can suffer and we want to make sure they are aware of the spectrum of abuse and what they can do to stop it happening."
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