Citation

White C. Baillieres Best Pract. Res. Clin. Obstet. Gynaecol. 2013; 27(1): 113-130.

Affiliation

St Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, St Mary's Hospital, York Place, Manchester M13 9WL, UK. Electronic address: Catherine.white2@nhs.net.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Baillière Tindall)

DOI

10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2012.08.011

PMID

23219384

Abstract

The examination of the rape victim should focus on the therapeutic, forensic and psychological needs of the individual patient. One aspect will be an examination for ano-genital injuries. From a medical perspective, they tend to be minor and require little in the way of treatment. They must be considered when assessing the risk of blood-borne viruses and the need for prophylaxis. From a forensic perspective, an understanding of genital injury rates, type of injury, site and healing may assist the clinician to interpret the findings in the context of the allegations that have been made. There are many myths and misunderstandings about ano-genital injuries and rape. The clinician has a duty to dispel these.

Language: en