Obstetricians and Gynecologists,

Obstetricians and Gynecologists,

Clinical Signs

Obtaining a history, screening for IPV, and performing a physical exam can help point to IPV. Huecker and Smock (2018) state the most common injuries involved in IPV are on the head, neck, and face. Defensive injuries may also be present on the forearms (Huecker & Smock, 2018). A full physical exam should also evaluate the skin in areas covered by clothing (Huecker & Smock, 2018). Sexual abuse may be harder to identify physically, depending on the nature of the abuse (Huecker & Smock, 2018). Psychological complaints may include: anxiety, depression, and fatigue (Huecker & Smock, 2018). The patient may also have vague complaints, such as chronic pain, headaches, or chest pain (Huecker & Smock, 2018).

References

ACOG. (2012). Intimate Partner Violence. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 518(1), 1-6. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org/-/media/Committee-Opinions/Committee-on-Health-Care-for-Underserved-Women/co518.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20190318T0127216097

Huecker, M., & Smock, W. (2018). Domestic violence. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499891/

WHO. (2017). Violence against women. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/violence-against-women