The report said changing sexual norms, particularly among young people, were a growing concern.
Committee members were told practices such as choking and strangulation were becoming more common during sex.
However, the report warned those acts could have serious health effects.
“These practices can have severe health consequences, such as brain injury and PTSD [post-traumatic stress disorder],” the report said.
It also noted evidence shows strangulation and choking could be warning signs of future, lethal violence.
The committee heard one response could be better training for hospital staff.
The board said educating emergency department workers about the signs of sexual assault would help them identify cases that might otherwise be missed and refer patients to the right services.
New sexual violence capability frameworks are expected to be published next year to help health professionals recognise more nuanced signs of sexual assault.
Officials also wanted stronger education for young people about the potential harms of rough sex.
– RNZ
