Dyspareunia in a Survivor of Childhood Sexual Abuse

Dyspareunia is a frequent chief concern encountered by midwives and other women's health care providers. There are many possible etiologies for dyspareunia, including a history of childhood sexual abuse, and approaching assessment in a holistic manner is necessary to identify the etiology. This case report presents evidence on the importance of screening a woman who presents with dyspareunia in a therapeutic manner to facilitate disclosure of sexual abuse. Best practices for screening for sexual violence, along with recommendations for providing gynecologic care to survivors, are offered. By understanding the long- term sequelae of sexual abuse and through screening all women, midwives and other women's health care providers can facilitate healing and treatment for survivors. (C) 2017 by the American College of Nurse-Midwives.