Unlike stranger rape, rape by a spouse or partner is likely to occur repeatedly. Such rapes are often accompanied by battering. Victims must sometimes choose between living with the rapist and leaving. Leaving a marriage or other relationship can involve financial and emotional difficulties and does not guarantee protection from being raped. Also contrary to stereotypes, when men are raped, consequences are similar to those experienced by women.
Men raped by other men often question their own sexuality.
Telling others can lead to social problems, such as being disbelieved or blamed. When others are supportive, however, talking about the rape can be therapeutic. Therapy can be helpful by providing support and helping with the particular consequences the victim is experiencing. With therapy and support from family and friends, people who have been raped can overcome the consequences and get on with their lives. Such advice is also based on the erroneous assumption that most perpetrators are strangers.