The Impact of Sexual Trauma on the Sexual Health of Women Veterans: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Sexual trauma, particularly childhood sexual trauma, is a potent risk factor for sexual health difficulties among civilian women. Women veterans report elevated rates of sexual trauma compared to their civilian peers, including sexual trauma during military service, perhaps making women veterans even more vulnerable to sexual health difficulties. A comprehensive review of the peer-reviewed literature on the relationship between sexual trauma and sexual health in women veterans was conducted. Inclusion criteria were measurement of sexual trauma and sexual health (i.e., sexual function or sexual satisfaction), a U.S. veteran sample including women veterans, and written in English. This process identified 18 articles. Results indicated that similar to the pattern observed among civilian women, sexual trauma was associated with an increased risk of sexual dysfunction and low sexual satisfaction among women veterans. Sexual pain was the most common sexual dysfunction among women veterans. Comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder and depression were identified as correlates of sexual dysfunction. Gaps in the literature included limited use of validated measures of sexual health and inconsistencies in the assessment of sexual trauma history. Future research is needed on the interrelationships between sexual trauma, sexual health, and mental health to inform treatment recommendations for improving sexual health among women veterans.