My suggestion would be to have ZERO expectations when it comes to your H and the pregnancy.
I also agree that one decent phone (message) call is not a baby step. Not even close. When somebody is verbally abusive on a constant basis the "nice call" is usually out of guilt or more likely he needs something and is paving the way for a smooth request. Verbally abusive people don't change in a matter of days. He will need to prove over many phone calls he can mind his manners and speak to you with civility and respect.
