RAPE TRAUMA SYNDROME

 Basic information

description

Rape trauma syndrome involves the physical and emotional aftereffects of rape. The term rape refers to forcible sexual intercourse with an unwilling partner. In most cases, the rapist is a man and the victim is a woman.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Right after the rape:
  • Physical injuries such as cuts, bruises, or other injuries, including vaginal and rectal tears.
  • Fear, anger, crying, or unusual behavior such as laughter.
  • No outward emotional signs (sometimes).
• Later effects (may be weeks to months):
  • Feelings of self-blame and guilt.
  • Depression and withdrawal, even from family and friends.
  • Mood swings; feelings of grief, shame, and revenge.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Fear of intercourse; fear of men.
  • Nightmares and sleep disorders.
  • Fear of being alone.
  • Anxiety.

causes

Rape is extremely traumatizing. All rape victims will suffer physical and emotional effects.

risk increases with

Any victim of rape or attempted rape.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

• There is no prevention for rape trauma syndrome.
• The scope of rape prevention is complex. It involves individuals, society, and the government.

expected outcomes

• It takes most rape victims a long time to feel like they've returned to a normal existence. Some never do, and some say that they are completely changed people.
• Length of recovery time will be different for every person. Recovery may involve stages:
  • Acute. This involves dealing with the immediate physical and emotional effects.
  • Outward adjustment. Individual appears to be resuming "normal life," but still suffers from turmoil.
  • Reorganization. The assault, though not forgotten, is no longer the central focus. Person begins to accept the rape as part of their life, but chooses to move on.

possible complications

• Sexually transmitted diseases.
• Emotional trauma that may last years.
• Pelvic injury.
• Pregnancy.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Immediate care:
  • Emergency medical care will be provided for your physical injuries. A general physical exam and pelvic exam will be done according to specific medical guidelines. A report is normally made to local law agencies.
  • Ask for help from a rape crisis center (or similar agency). They provide support and help you through the medical, emotional, and legal necessities.
  • You will be advised about the risks of pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B, and other infections, and what can be done to prevent the risks, and the need for any follow-up tests.
• After the medical care:
  • Get counseling help. This is important for your emotional recovery. Don't just try to put the matter out of your mind, and don't try to "go it alone." Suppressing your feelings can increase distress.
  • Keeping a journal or diary about your feelings, thoughts, and reactions may be helpful. Talk over your feelings with trusted friends and family.
  • Prepare yourself as much as possible for legal proceedings that force you to relive the trauma.
  • To learn more: National Sexual Assault Hotline (800) 656-HOPE (4673), which connects callers to a nearby rape crisis center; website: www.rainn.org.

medications

• Your health care provider may prescribe:
  • Antibiotics, if infection is suspected or diagnosed.
  • Emergency contraception.
  • Sedatives or tranquilizers to reduce anxiety.
  • Tetanus prevention.

activity

No limits.

diet

No special diet.

 notify our office if

• You or someone you know has been raped.
• Emotional and/or physical problems become worse.

Special Notes: