Global figures estimate that around one in six women will experience sexual assault during their lifetime. These figures are not only high but also extremely concerning, given that sexual assault is a deeply traumatic experience for someone to go through.
The psychological consequences of sexual assault, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression, are well known. But most people are less aware that sexual violence can also affect a person’s physical health – for sometimes months or years to come.
Existing research in this area has mostly focused on pelvic pain, gastrointestinal problems, or short-term pain in the months following an assault.
