[Rape: a social problem and a public health issue]

The French legal definition of rape was somewhat vague until the 1970s. In December 1980, the increased awareness created by the feminist movement led to a precise legal definition and to the possibility for self-help groups to participate in legal actions. In 1985, a telephone helpline was created after several rapes were following several rapes committed in public. Since 1986, more than 39 000 women have called this hotline. Other recent studies confirm the frequency of rape. Major advances have been made in recent years, in terms of justice for minors who are victims of rape (lengthening of the statutory limitation on sexual crimes) and healthcare provision (opening of refuges, medical-legal consultations, victim management centers, greater awareness among healthcare professionals, etc.). Women need to be better informed of the frequency of rape, its legal implications, rapists' strategies, mental disorders, and the physical (especially gynecological) repercussions of rape. Women must also be aware that the rapist is the only guilty party. Finally, a multidisciplinary strategy is needed, notably involving self-help associations and hospital units that deal with rape victims.