[Examination and care of sexual assault victims]

Any general practitioner might have to examine and care for a sexual assault victim in their professional practice. Taking time to listen to the victim's story is essential to direct the examination and sample collection. The general physical examination screens for physical injuries. Perineal examination is specialized, and should be performed within a very short period of time in the event of a recent assault with sexual penetration. The purpose of further examination is to collect evidence and identify the victim's sexually transmitted disease status to screen for any seroconversion during follow-up. Preventive measures should be considered on an individual basis: contragestion, triple antiretroviral therapy, immunoglobulins and hepatitis B immunization. Lastly, referrals to social or psychotherapeutic services and/or associations are extremely helpful to the victim.