HOUSTON – Domestic violence is a silent epidemic affecting millions of women, but in Houston, the numbers are particularly alarming. According to experts, homicide is the leading cause of death for pregnant women in the U.S.
Just last October, Christa Gilley, a physical therapist and mother from The Heights, was murdered by her husband while pregnant with their third child.
Domestic violence impacts one in three women in their lifetime. More than 320,000 pregnant women experience abuse from their partners each year, and for those already in an abusive relationship, pregnancy increases their risk.
Sonia Corrales, Deputy CEO of the Houston Area Women’s Center, explains that domestic violence is more than just physical abuse—it is a pattern of behaviors used to exert power and control over a victim.
Sonia Corrales: “One out of every three women might be a survivor of domestic violence or intimate partner violence. It is important to talk about what it means because a lot of times people may not understand. The way we like to define it is that it is a pattern of behaviors that are manipulated—one partner exerting power and control over another.”
Many survivors remain trapped in abusive relationships because the warning signs are not always obvious. Corrales highlights some key indicators that someone may be experiencing abuse:
Sonia Corrales: “If somebody is isolating you from your friends and family, minimizing you, gaslighting you—making you feel like somehow this is your fault—it can make it even harder to leave. And if there are children involved, or if you’re pregnant, the abuser may use that against you to maintain control.”
The Houston Area Women’s Center uses the Three R’s when discussing domestic violence:
- Recognize – Learn the dynamics of domestic violence and its warning signs.
- Respond – Support survivors by reminding them that it is not their fault.
- Refer – Connect survivors with resources that can help them escape the situation.
Leaving an abusive relationship is one of the most dangerous times for a survivor. Studies show that 40 to 50% of domestic violence-related homicides occur when a survivor attempts to leave.
Sonia Corrales: “One of the most dangerous times for a survivor is when they try to leave. In 40 to 50% of cases, that’s when we see the most severe violence—sometimes even murder-suicides. That’s why safety planning is critical. It’s not just about general advice—it’s about tailoring a plan to the survivor’s specific situation. The goal is to make sure they have the resources, knowledge, and support to leave as safely as possible.”
The Houston Area Women’s Center offers a 24-hour crisis hotline, counseling services, and legal assistance for survivors seeking protective orders. Additionally, the organization provides tailored safety planning to help survivors leave abusive situations as safely as possible.
Another critical concern is stalking, which often increases when a survivor leaves an abusive relationship. Corrales emphasizes the importance of having a plan in place and knowing where to seek help.
For more information on recognizing abuse and creating a safety plan, tune in to the KPRC2+ livestream at 8 a.m., where Re’Chelle Turner will be discussing the different forms of abuse and how to protect survivors.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Contact the Houston Area Women’s Center hotline at (713) 528-2121 or visit their website for confidential support.