Sleeping with the wrong person can have lasting effects beyond the moment. “When intimacy is shared with someone who doesn’t value or respect you, it can leave you feeling empty, regretful, or even used.” What was meant to be short-lived pleasure may spiral into weeks of self-doubt and heartache.

Emotional ties often complicate matters. Many find it hard to separate physical intimacy from feelings, which makes moving on painful and confusing.

The impact also reaches relationships and social circles. If the person is already committed, it can cause “broken trust, damaged friendships, or even public drama.”

Rumors and judgment from others can spread, harming one’s reputation and emotional well-being. Even without cheating, casual encounters often bring mismatched expectations.

One person may hope for commitment while the other only sees “nothing more than a one-night stand,” creating conflict and disappointment.