What Is Sexual Trauma? It’s More Common Than You Think

Did you know that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience sexual violence in their lifetime? Let that sink in.

And that’s only what’s reported. Sexual trauma is more than a moment—it’s a memory the body holds onto, even when the mind tries to forget. It can shape your thoughts, your relationships, your view of yourself, and especially your connection to intimacy.

So What Is Sexual Trauma?

Trauma is not about the event—it’s about how your body experienced it. Even if you can’t remember it clearly, even if others told you it wasn’t “that bad”—if it felt violating, unsafe, or disempowering… that matters.

For years, many of my clients didn’t see themselve as someone with trauma.

They brushed off their discomfort while some laughed off their numbness. Some thought they just needed to be more confident, more open, more relaxed. But deep down, they were disconnected. From their body. From sex. From partners. From themselves.

And no—you’re not broken. You’re not dramatic. You’re not making it up.

You’re responding to trauma the best way your nervous system knows how.

Healing Starts With Awareness

Naming what happened—or what didn’t happen that should have—is a powerful first step. Awareness is what opens the door to healing, connection, and reclaiming your body and pleasure on your terms.

And if you’re here, reading this? You’ve already cracked that door open.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going…

If this post resonated, you’re not alone.