How Has A Sexual Assault Impacted Your Sex Life?

We'd like to share your stories with others who may have experienced something similar.

Each year, there are (on average) over 320,000 victims of rape and sexual assault in the US.

Instagram: @thejohnnies / Via instagram.com

Nearly 1 in 5 women and 1 in 71 men have been the victim of rape or attempted rape, according to data from the CDC.

The lasting psychological and physical impacts of sexual assault can be debilitating.

rainn.org / Via Facebook: RAINN01

Psychologically, this can include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and feelings of shame, numbness, or isolation. Physically, victims might be forced to deal with sexually transmitted infections, unintended pregnancy, and loss of desire.

Victims of sexual assault may find it particularly difficult to imagine enjoying sex and intimacy again.

Instagram: @consentnation_ / Via instagram.com

That's why BuzzFeed Health wants to share your stories of healing, recovering, and relearning how to feel safe, sexual, and whole again. We want to hear how you reclaimed your body or overcame sexual dysfunction brought on by your assault — or if you're in the process of doing so now.

What would you like to tell other victims of sexual assault about taking back control of your sexuality and your sex life?

Casey Gueren / Via BuzzFeed News

Maybe you found a professional, a group, or an online community that specialized in supporting survivors. Maybe you have some helpful advice for others who are feeling numb, shocked, or afraid. Maybe you found something that helped you appreciate and celebrate your body or put you back in touch with your sexuality. Or maybe you have some solid advice for learning how to trust and love again.

You can send your stories to [e-mail]. And please note if you would like them to be anonymous.

We want to feature a wide range of experiences and viewpoints, so be sure to include a little information about yourself if it seems relevant. You can include as little or as much detail as you want. Your story might be featured in an upcoming BuzzFeed Health post.