Rape can scar the survivor both emotionally and physically and affects the entire family.
Physical after-effects include sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy, Hepatitis B or HIV/Aids, urinary tract infections and damage. Many rape survivors also experience severe physical symptoms of nervousness and tension, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, indigestion, nausea and vomiting, tremors, dizziness, fatigue, confusion or memory loss, headaches and sleeplessness.
All rape survivors show symptoms of PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) after a rape. Symptoms include prolonged depression, sleeplessness, changed eating patterns, suicidal thoughts, panic attacks, flashbacks and nightmares, mood swings, outbursts of anger, relationship problems, problems with sexuality, social withdrawal, substance abuse, intense fear, anxiety and phobias.
In order to deal with the after-effects of rape, it is recommended that all rape survivors receive intensive psychological counselling to deal with the trauma. If friends, relatives or children were present during the rape, they will also need counselling. Such service are provided by the Department of Social Services, organisations such as Lifeline, churches as well as professionals.
GRIP also provides literature about rape, HIV/AIDS as well as information about PEP (post exposure prophylaxis) which is treatment given to help prevent transmission of HIV.
