ABSTRACT
This chapter provides information about the definition and prevalence of childhood sexual abuse, the long-term effects and the specific issues related to pregnancy and childbirth. The relationship between child sexual abuse and adolescent pregnancy, preterm labour, labour and birth, language, mental health problems and breastfeeding is considered. The chapter considers definitions and the prevalence of childhood sexual abuse followed by issues related to childbirth, including adolescent pregnancy, preterm labour, language and power, unhappiness after birth and breastfeeding. Psychological effects have been identified in several comprehensive studies on the long-term consequences of child sexual abuse. Research into the menstrual and pregnancy-related consequences of childhood sexual abuse has revealed a number of problems that are more likely to occur in survivors of childhood sexual abuse and neglect. Supporting survivors of childhood sexual abuse through their pregnancies, births and beyond is both challenging and rewarding for midwives and all those involved.
