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[Sexual problems and experiences with sexual and physical violence in gynecological patients]
J J van Lankveld1, M M ter Kuile, G G Kenter
1Polikliniek Psychosomatische Gynaecologie en Seksuologie, Academisch Ziekenhuis, Leiden.
Objective:
To determine the frequency of sexual difficulties and of sexual and physical abuse.
Design:
Descriptive survey study.
Setting:
Outpatient gynaecology clinic of the University Hospital of Leiden, the Netherlands.
Patients And Method:
During 3 months, December 1994-February 1995, all consecutive new female patients were questioned by the gynaecologist by means of a short standardised questionnaire. Oncology patients and non-Dutch-speaking patients were excluded. Data were analysed with descriptive statistical procedures; relationships among variables were tested with the chi 2 test with Yates' correction or Fisher's exact test.
Results:
Of 325 patients 34.2% reported sexual difficulties, 15.4% reported sexual abuse and 7.4% physical molestation. Age of the patient and presence or absence of the partner during the consultation were not associated with differences in the patients' reports. 18.8% of the patients with these complaints answered affirmatively when asked if they needed specialised help.
Conclusion:
Sexual difficulties and sexual and physical abuse were common among gynaecology patients. Less than one-fifth of them required specialised help.