I think part of it is that you don't want to be attractive to men, cause if you're unappealing to them, you won't get hurt. Also, if you have problems talking about your pain then you could also subconsciously be turning to food for comfort.

I have noticed that when I'm incredibly down, I don't want to appear attractive to ANYONE!! Cause I see myself as disgusting. Sometimes, I WANT to appear attractive...but with that, comes a dangerous counteraction. Starvation. Either way...it's unattractive. I think that if you're able to just accept that it DID happen, and you're able to deal with it...then I suggest you DO.

I always warn people from becoming anything like me. It's not fun to lack control over what you do. It's even less fun to see the results of that lack of control.

I have heard of it going either way. Either you punish yourself by eating too much and wanting to gain a lot of weight, or you struggle to gain some kind of control in your life by way of anorexia or bulimia. I have gone the opposite way, with eating disorders of a trying to be skinny and attractive because that is approved of type of way.

Yes, sexual abuse definitely can be the root cause of weight gain or loss...!!!!

Weight gain and/or weight loss is pretty normal after rape and abuse. I gained weight during the abuse and lost a TON (in a very unhealthy way) afterwards.
And I think that this theory makes a lot of sense. I know that in my case it does. I didn't want to be looked at or seen as attractive.
I think for right now, you're best bet is to try and be HEALTHY. Don't worry about your size, just try to take care of your body the best way you can and before long you'll start to feel pretty again on the inside, and by the time that happens you'll be ready to be pretty again on the outside too.
I'm always here if you ever want to talk, friend. BIG hug and lots of love.

yes, it is very common. it's a self-protective method we subconsiously use. I've always been up and down with my weight by 20- 30 pounds.
I wish I could tell you otherwise. It's something we must battle. We have to love ourselves again by respecting ourselves and taking care of ourselves. Sometimes we can get trapped into abusing our own bodies from the shame and fear that we experience on a daily basis. I'm so sorry that this happened and pray that you will cope with it the best way you can. Be patient with yourself and love yourself the best you can because you deserve it.

I have heard that this can be common with sexual abuse victims.
I think that it happens like you say because the person doesnt want to be attractive and also it may be comfort eating that some people do when they are stressed or depressed.
Have you had therapy? It sounds like your mum is giving you support which is great.
If the weight gain is bothering you, try to do something healthier than overeating, such as exercise which is great for boosting your mood. You could take up a hobby that makes you happy or that is healing for you.
I have a problem with overeating and its part boredom and part filling that emotional void with food. Ive tried to find things I can do that I can focus on instead such as hobbies and exercise and getting out of the house.
all the best