In an ideal world, no one would ever be sexually assaulted, but authorities say that to optimise evidence gathering in sexual assault cases, victims should get a medical exam within 72 hours.
Even when up to two weeks have passed, however, especially if the victim is a child, useful forensic evidence can still be obtained, said Dr. Nosa Igbinomwanhia, an obstetrician gynaecologist with the BVI Health Services Authority.
“This is a big part of gynaecology now: forensic gynaecology,” Dr. Igbinomwanhia said in an interview last week, later adding, “We have a very good system here. It’s a complete kit.”
Dr. Igbinomwanhia examines many of the victims of sexual assault in the territory, and says that whether the victim is a child or an adult, after an examination doctors will check for sexually transmitted diseases and the victim will see a social worker. Kits are sent overseas for analysis, he said.
“Counselling and social support is very important, because this is devastating,” Dr. Igbinomwanhia said, adding that victims of sexual assault often suffer post-traumatic stress disorder.
On Friday, residents are asked to display blue ribbons on their clothes and vehicles in observance of Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month, which this year is themed “Break the Silence: End Child Sexual Abuse.”
See the April 25, 2013 edition for full coverage.
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