Women's experiences of sexual abuse in childhood

This study reports the results of questioning 1,253 women about experiences of sexual abuse during childhood. An incidence of 3.5% was identified; many of those affected reported benefit from the opportunity to discuss what had happened, an aspect which should be facilitated during routine consultations. The study identified a substantial burden on emotional health presenting into adult life. The wide range of places where abuse occurred and of relationships between the abusers/victims has important implications for educating children.