PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE ON VICTIMS DR LILIAN OKPEBHO MILITARY HOSPITAL BENIN

OVERVIEW Victims usually don’t present in hospitals early. Rape is any oral, anal or vaginal penetration that involves force or threat against an unwilling person. More females are raped than males.

APPROACHING A CASE OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE History Examination Investigations / Tests Management

HISTORY Allow victim narrate events Menstrual history Contraceptive history Other Medical conditions.

EXAMINATION AIM a) Identify and preserve physical evidence of the assault b) Prevent STI’s c)Risk of pregnancy

MEDICAL EXAMINATION a) General condition( usually not life threatening)- scratches, bruises which are common in the mouth, throat, wrists, arms, thighs and breasts. b) Shock

c) collection of evidences semen, sperms and saliva samples, stains on body & clothes. d) photographs 2) Pelvic examination

INVESTIGATIONS VDRL RVS HBsAg Pregnancy test Abdominal scan

EFFECTS OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE ON VICTIMS. Sexual violence can have both physical, emotional and psychological effects. These effects could be difficult to deal with. They include: Post traumatic stress disorder

Self harm Flashbacks Depression Substance use Dissociation Pregnancy Suicide Sleep disorders Eating disorders

CONCLUSION Records & documentation of sexually assaulted victims especially in our country is low & poor because of our traditional and religious beliefs, and the fear of being stigmatized & looked upon as been less of a person. Also the fear of prolongation of court cases, thereby making victim relive experiences for longer periods of time, prevents victims from coming forth.

Victims of sexual assaults are to be shown the maximum level of love, care, understanding & empathy, if they are to achieve a faster and better recovery from such traumatic experiences as well as regain their dignity and self respect.

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