Sleeping with the wrong person can leave deep emotional scars. As the article notes, *“what was meant to be a fleeting moment of pleasure can turn into weeks or months of self-doubt and heartache.”* When intimacy is shared with someone who doesn’t respect or value you, it can result in feelings of regret, emptiness, or even being used.

Emotional attachment often lingers, making it hard to move on. *“Many people struggle to separate physical intimacy from emotional attachment,”* leading to confusion and pain, especially when expectations are not mutual.

There are also social consequences. Being intimate with someone in another relationship can damage trust, cause drama, or invite judgment. Even casual relationships may spark conflict if one person wants more than the other.

Physical risks are real too—STIs and unplanned pregnancies can occur even with protection. *“Nothing is 100% foolproof,”* and the aftermath can be stressful and life-changing.

Lastly, such experiences can harm your self-esteem and future relationships. Repeated mistakes may create unhealthy patterns. But recognizing your worth, setting boundaries, and choosing respectful partners can help avoid these issues and lead to healthier emotional well-being.