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Sequelae of sexual abuse

As discussed above, the immediate risks of sexual abuse or assault include pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and physical injuries. These complications are rare in the pediatric population, but a substantial number-up to 50% of child and adolescent victims-experience long-term, debilitating emotional, psychological, and even medical sequelae. Among these sequelae are:

  1. Difficulties maintaining healthy intimate relationships with life partners;
  1. Higher risk of developing psychiatric illness, especially mood disorders, self-harming, and eating disorders;
  1. Higher risk for substance use, sexual promiscuity, and other poor lifestyle choices;