Rape

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Post-traumatic stress disorder

If there is a chance that the rapist is HIV-infected, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP, a way to reduce the odds of infection by immediate use of antiretroviral medications) should be explained and offered. Referral to a local rape crisis center may be helpful. These centers offer peer support, and advice necessary for adequate healing from the trauma.

OUTLOOK

Recovery from a rape typically includes the acute phase (immediate period of physical pain and wound healing, emotional reactions and coping mechanisms put into action), and the reorganization phase (occurring about one week after the rape and lasting months to years, as the person attempts to "get on with life").

Group psychotherapy with other rape survivors as been show to be the most effective treatment.

COMPLICATIONS

Some women are never fully able to recover emotionally from a rape. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common complication. Symptoms include recurrent nightmares, intrusive memories (flashbacks) of the event, social withdrawal, depression, anxiety, and numbing of emotions. Cognitive psychotherapy and antidepressant medications have been shown to be effective treatments for PTSD.

More than 50% of rape victims have some difficulty in re-establishing relationships with spouses or partners or, if unattached, in re-entering the "dating scene."

Any pre-existing psychiatric disorders may be worsened. Suicidal behaviors, depression, and substance abuse may develop or become more prominent.

CALL YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF

• You have been raped: go to the nearest emergency room right away. Do not shower or change your clothes.
• You were sexually assaulted in the past but never sought or received adequate care.
• You have been raped (recently or in the past) and are experiencing personal or relationship problems.

Review Date: 05/17/2006
Reviewed By: Paul Ballas, D.O., Department of Psychiatry, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.