History of Sexual Violence as a Predictor of Distress During Pelvic Exams

Women who have experienced sexual violence are less likely to seek regular gynecologic care. To determine whether history of sexual violence is associated with examination-related distress and pain, investigators surveyed 67 eligible female U.S. veterans (age range, 18–65) after they underwent routine gynecologic examinations. Standardized instruments were used to assess exposure to sexual violence, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) status, and perceptions of distress and pain during pelvic examinations.

The overall rate of exposure to sexual violence was 77%. Of 49 women who were evaluated for PTSD status, 15 had PTSD in association with sexual violence. Women with prior sexual violence exposure reported higher levels of distress during…