Types of sexual violence

Rape

(including 'stealthing')
Sexual assault
Child sexual abuse
Assault by penetration
Sexual harassment
Spiking
Indecent exposure

(also known as 'flashing')
Cyber flashing

(including 'dick pics')
Female genital mutilation

(also known as 'FGM')

We are working all the time to bring you more information

So, just because something isn't mentioned on this page doesn't mean it's not sexual violence.

Feeling unsure? If there's no consent then it's always sexual violence.

Examples of other types of sexual violence:

Sexual exploitation, trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation, stalking and voyeurism.

Getting help and support

Not sure if what happened to you was any of these things?

You can talk to us.

It's okay to be confused and you don't have to have all the words yet. If something sexual happened to you that didn't feel good or 'right', we are here for you.

Find out more

A young woman in round glasses sits on a kitchen chair using her smartphone. Her feet are up on the chair and she has her knees drawn up.

Key statistics

Key facts and stats about how many people are affected and the scale of the problem.
Myths vs facts

There are lots of myths about sexual violence that can cause serious harm.
What is sexual violence?

‘Sexual violence’ is a term we use to describe any sexual activity that happened without consent.

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Types of sexual violence

Find out more

We are working all the time to bring you more information

Not sure if what happened to you was any of these things?

More about sexual violence

Find your nearest Rape Crisis centre

Want to talk?