What is NFSS?
Non-fatal strangulation and/or suffocation (NFSS) is a dangerous form of intimate partner violence (IPV). Strangulation and suffocation both prevent oxygen getting to the brain, and this lack of oxygen can cause serious damage – similar to what happens if you get knocked out or suffer a concussion.
NFSS is a strong indicator of future violence in a relationship. If you've been strangled or suffocated by a controlling partner, your risk of being killed by them in the future can increase by up to seven times.
You have the right to be safe
Strangulation
Strangulation is when pressure is applied on or around the neck with enough force to reduce or stop breathing, or block the flow of oxygen to the brain. Pressure can be applied to the neck in different ways, for example:
by using hands or a forearm, or
by using something like a scarf, belt or cord to squeeze or restrict the neck.
Strangulation is often referred to as choking, but choking is different. Choking refers to when something – like a piece of food – is blocking the throat, making it hard to breathe.
Suffocation
Suffocation happens when someone’s mouth or nose (or both) are blocked, preventing air from reaching their lungs. This can happen if:
a person’s mouth is covered by a hand, pillow, or clothing, or
something like a cloth is stuffed into someone’s mouth, cutting off their ability to breathe.
Survivor story
Watch as one survivor shares her story of NFSS.
Content warning: This video discusses intimate partner violence (IPV), which may be triggering for some viewers.
NFSS and the law
In 2018, NFSS was recognised as a criminal offence in New Zealand law. Anyone who is convicted of trying to strangle or suffocate someone can go to jail for up to seven years.
Family Violence (Amendments) Act 2018 – New Zealand Legislation
NFSS as part of rough sex
Rough sex can refer to a range of consensual sexual activities that may include strangulation, but this is different to intimate partner violence within an abusive relationship. Rough sex can also be different to bondage and discipline, dominance and submission, and sadism and masochism (BDSM).
However, even when there’s consent, strangling a person is still considered a crime in New Zealand as there’s no safe way to do it.
More about strangulation and rough sex – In the know
Getting medical attention
Even if you feel fine, it's important to get a health check after experiencing strangulation or suffocation.
In this video, Dr Kate Taylor talks about NFSS symptoms and impacts, and explains what to expect when you see a doctor for a health check.
Medical help after non-fatal strangulation and/or suffocation (NFSS)
Common side effects of NFSS
While it’s rare to experience serious problems from NFSS, it can be days or weeks before some injuries or side effects can be seen or felt, and internal injuries may not be visible at all. That’s why it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible after the event.
Go to your doctor, local urgent medical centre, the hospital, or call 111 for an ambulance if you:
have difficulty breathing
feel serious pain when swallowing
have a swollen neck or tongue
have a significant change in your voice or breathing
are pregnant.
Looking after your mental wellbeing
NFSS can have as big an impact on your mental health as it can on your physical health. Help and support is available if you need it. Your GP, practice nurse or medical clinic will be able to direct you to some organisations in your community who provide the services you need.
If you continue to experience health issues
The milder side effects of NFSS – like headaches or dizziness – usually get better without any treatment. However, if you start to develop new bruises or swelling after you’ve had a health check, or your symptoms last for more than two weeks, see your GP for advice (or contact the doctor you saw for treatment if it wasn’t your usual GP). They may be able to give you advice over the phone if you can’t see them in person.
Reporting NFSS to the police
If you've been strangled or suffocated, you can report it to the police. New Zealand Police has teams who are experts in helping people who have experienced NFSS, intimate partner violence, and family harm.
This video explains how New Zealand Police can support you if you’ve experienced strangulation or suffocation as part of intimate partner violence.
Police and legal support
Other support
Find details of other support agencies in your community, and practical online resources and tools that may be useful if you – or someone you know – has been affected by family violence, sexual assault, or non-fatal strangulation and/or suffocation.