In many parts of the world, shelters for battered women and networks against violence have been established. There is also a great need to develop best practice models within the health care system. Obstetrician-gynaecologists might refrain from facing the problem because they lack referral systems and resources in the community to address violence. It is important to remember that most baterted women hope that someone will ask them about the abuse. For an abused woman, facing a caring obstetrician-gynaecologist who has knowledge of abuse may be the first step toward changing her situation.
Abused women are over-represented among several diagnostic groups.
Abused women might have problems following certain types of treatments such as antibiotics, because they are afraid they will be suspected of extramarital sex, and beaten for it. It might be difficult for abused women to inform their husband that they have tested HIV-positive. Memories of severe trauma might be triggered by the gynaecological examination. An abused woman might be more severely beaten if the husband knows she has disclosed abuse. Contraceptive advice must take into account the woman's ability to control her own sex life.