In spite of the relatively low risk of infection, rape should be considered as a possible source of exposure. Rape victims concerns about exposure are important and require attention. See section on Health-Related Concerns. A final health outcome associated with rape includes the risk of pregnancy. Health Rape not only increases a woman's risk of specific types of mental health problems, but also leads to general stress, anxiety and worry.
Chronic concerns can negatively affect health.
The National Women's Study found that rape victims had concerns about their health related to rape. Indirect Health Effects of Rape Chronic Stress-Related Physical Complaints Chronic health problems are persistent and caused by a number of factors. Chronic health complaints can arise from ongoing difficulties with acute physical injury, health problems associated with ongoing stress, other mental health difficulties, and harmful behaviors used to cope with emotional distress. These chronic health-related problems are reviewed in this section. General Health Problems Reports of physical injury are less common than general health complaints following sexual assault.