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The Military Environment: Implications for Women’s Sexual Assault Risk and Sexuality

Sadler AG, Mengeling M, Booth B, Torner J. The Military Environment: Implications for Women’s Sexual Assault Risk and Sexuality. Paper presented at: Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality Annual Meeting; 2013 Nov 15; San Diego, CA.




Abstract:

Two parallel studies investigating the antecedent risks and subsequent health consequences of sexual assault in servicewomen during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) were conducted. 205 of 1,339 servicewomen experienced at least one sexual assault while serving in-military (SAIM). Only 16% (n = 33) reported receiving medical care for any SAIM, even though 26% reported being physically injured and 18% reported vaginal injuries. The primary reason for not seeking post-assault care was that women did not think care was needed (72%). When care was received, it was most likely obtained at a military base (67%) or civilian care provider (39%), not mutually exclusive. Few women were examined with a forensic rape-kit (n = 17), offered a pregnancy test (n = 22), a 'morning after pill' (n = 14), assessed for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (n = 21), offered medication to prevent HIV (n = 6). Only those examined with a rape-kit were offered medication to prevent HIV (6/17). Among those who experienced a completed SAIM, only 4% (n = 5) received care that addressed all of the following: pregnancy, STIs, and HIV. Stigma associated with sexual assault may present a barrier to seeking needed medical care, which in turn may significantly delay receiving any physical and/or mental health care following a sexual assault. Best practices for post-sexual assault medical care include treatment of injuries and prevention of unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and human immunodeficiency virus. Ways to facilitate immediate access to post-sexual medical care are warranted and ensuring those who experience sexual assault have access to best practices is essential.





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