Experts say that an estimated 13% to 45% of women will be sexually assaulted at some point in their adult lives. Not surprisingly, many of those women experience sexual dysfunction afterward.

Diminished sexual interest, painful intercourse, and trouble reaching orgasm are common issues. Sometimes, the problems last for years. 

However, researchers from the University of Washington in Seattle have found that disclosing an assault could protect alleviate some of those issues, at least to some extent. 

The study involved 652 women between the ages of 21 and 30. About three quarters of them had been sexually assaulted after age 14. 

The scientists noted that disclosure could lessen the impact of trauma, leading to better sexual outcomes. Having positive sexual experiences could help women focus on the positive aspects of sex.

Learn more about this study here.