This study evaluated the process and results of treatment for women at a university hospital after sexual violence. A prospective study of 166 women (> 12 years of age) treated from October 1999 to February 2002 included six months follow-up after aggression. Half of the women were under 20 years of age, two were illiterate, 70.0% unmarried, 20.0% used contraceptives, and 80.0% received treatment within the first 24 hours post-aggression. Nearly 80.0% of aggressors were unknown to victims and 95.0% of the cases involved vaginal penetration. Emergency contraception was administered to 76.0%, antibiotics to 98.0%, hepatitis B immunoglobulin to 95.0%, and HIV anti-retroviral prophylaxis to 90.0%. The first follow-up consultation (at 14 days) was attended by 137 women, whereas 37.0% dropped out before the 45-day visit and only 29.0% complied with the six-month follow-up. During follow-up, hepatitis B and HPV were identified in 2.6%, pelvic inflammatory disease and Trichomonas vaginalis in 2.1%, and syphilis in 1.3%. Three pregnancies were observed among 127 women who received emergency contraception (2.6%). No cases of HIV seroconversion were observed. Emergency care for victims of sexual assault is effective in reducing unwanted pregnancies and infections.
Battered Women; Women's Health; Emergency Medical Services
