Sexual Trauma

Sexual trauma is, unfortunately, a history too many of us share. Every two minutes, in the U.S. alone, a woman is raped.

Nearly one third of rape victims suffer post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at some time in their lives as a result of the crime.

The effects of sexual trauma on our sexual health are entirely individual. We don't all respond to these experiences in the same way. But statistically, women who experience these traumas are more likely to have problems with sexual function at some point in their lives.

Our sexuality is a complicated balance of our biology, psychology, and sociology. Enjoying good sexual health means keeping all three of those plates spinning. If you have been through childhood or adult sexual abuse and feel unworthy of the attention or cost or time needed to pursue special therapies, please know: that's the abuse doing your thinking for you. You deserve good sexual health and happiness, and whatever it takes to get it.

Getting the help of a good therapist is a very good idea if you have sexual trauma in your history and are experiencing sexual difficulties that can't be explained by normal midlife changes.

Look for one of the many cognitive and physical therapists who are experienced in healing the damages of sexual abuse. Healing happens for women every day. It is possible.

Learn about the actions you could take, listed at right, to address this condition or see other conditions that could affect you.