Dr Meyrick said for those children born of rape, “life can be equally complex”.
As they grow older, children may face identity struggles, social exclusion or emotional challenges linked to their origins.
“At the heart of this web of trauma, secrecy and societal attitudes around stigma, we are creating a cycle of vulnerability for mothers and children,” she said.
“There is a fear of stigma around sexual violence, sexual abuse and rape.
“This silence matters because routine check-ups and maternity care can feel triggering.
“We need to break that cycle. That means care that is sensitive, trauma-informed and free from stigma.
“We need to be able to ask and create the conditions for women to tell.”