The following is information excerpted from the report. According to ACOG, the annual incidence of sexual assault was 200 per 100,000 persons in 1994, an increase from 73 per 100,000 persons in 1987. In addition, many women do not report sexual assault because of embarrassment, fear of retribution, feelings of guilt or simply a lack of knowledge of their rights. The rightsholder did not grant rights to reproduce this item in electronic media. For the missing item, see the original print version of this publication.
Sexual assault occurs in all age, racial and socioeconomic groups.
The physician evaluating a victim of sexual assault has a number of responsibilities, both medical and legal, and should be aware of state statutory laws. The table lists the medical and legal responsibilities of the physician. Informed consent must be obtained before the examination of a sexual assault victim is begun and specimens are collected. After acute injuries have been determined and stabilized, a careful history and thorough physical examination should be performed. ACOG recommends that a third party be present during the history taking and physical examination to reassure and lend support to the victim.