@article{ref1,
title="Experiences of Female Survivors of Sexual Violence in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo: A mixed-methods study",
journal="Conflict and health",
year="2011",
author="Kelly, J. T. and Betancourt, T. S. and Mukwege, D. and Lipton, R. I. and Vanrooyen, M. J.",
volume="5",
number="1",
pages="25-25",
abstract="BACKGROUND: The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is the deadliest since World War II. Over a decade of fighting amongst an array of armed groups has resulted in extensive human rights abuses, particularly the widespread use of sexual violence against women. METHODS: Using a mixed-methods approach, we surveyed a non-random sample of 255 women attending a referral hospital and two local non-governmental organizations to characterize their experiences with sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). We then conducted focus groups with 48 female survivors of SGBV to elaborate on survey findings. Quantitative and qualitative data underwent thematic and statistical analysis respectively. FINDINGS: Of the women surveyed, 193 (75.7%) experienced rape. Twenty-nine percent of raped women were rejected by their families and 6% by their communities. Thirteen percent of women had a child from rape. Widowhood, husband abandonment, gang rape, and having a child from rape were significant risk factors for social rejection. Mixed methods findings show rape survivors were seen as &quot;contaminated&quot; with HIV, contributing to their isolation and over 95% could not access prophylactic care in time. Receiving support from their husbands after rape was protective against survivors' feelings of shame and social isolation. Interpretation: Rape results not only in physical and psychological trauma, but can destroy family and community structures. Women face significant obstacles in seeking services after rape. Interventions offering long-term solutions for hyper-vulnerable women are vital, but lacking. Counseling and reintegration programs for survivors of violence that involve family members and the wider community are also needed.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1752-1505",
doi="10.1186/1752-1505-5-25",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/1752-1505-5-25"
}