Citation

LoGiudice JA. J. Midwifery Womens Health 2017; 62(2): 215-219.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1111/jmwh.12608

PMID

28340508

Abstract

Dyspareunia is a frequent chief concern encountered by midwives and other women's health care providers. There are many possible etiologies for dyspareunia, including a history of childhood sexual abuse, and approaching assessment in a holistic manner is necessary to identify the etiology. This case report presents evidence on the importance of screening a woman who presents with dyspareunia in a therapeutic manner to facilitate disclosure of sexual abuse. Best practices for screening for sexual violence, along with recommendations for providing gynecologic care to survivors, are offered. By understanding the long-term sequelae of sexual abuse and through screening all women, midwives and other women's health care providers can facilitate healing and treatment for survivors.

© 2017 by the American College of Nurse-Midwives.

Language: en

Keywords

childhood sexual abuse; dyspareunia; screening; sexual abuse