Intimate abuse within a relationship refers to a pattern of behaviours used to manipulate, control or influence an intimate partner sexually to have power over that person. It can refer to non-consensual sexual contact with a romantic or sexual partner.

• Sexual abuse in conjunction with emotional, mental or physical abuse
• Using fear, shame, guilt, threats, manipulation or intimidation to force sexual activity
• Forcing someone to dress in a sexual way
• Using sexual activity as a tool to exhibit power and/or control
• Forcing sexual activity when you have not given your consent
• Holding you down or restraining during sexual activity
• Forcing or coercing someone to do something that they are not comfortable with
• Ignoring feelings when it comes to sexual activity