Gender Based Violence (GBV) Data Collection and Gynaecologist’s Perspective in a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Aim: To find incidence and severity of gender based violence (GBV) in women attending gynecology OPD using structured abuse questionnaire and Compare their clinical diagnosis with those not facing GBV Study design: Cross sectional analytical study Place and duration of Study: This study was conducted at obstetrics and gynecology Out Patient Department of CMH Kharian from Nov 2017-April 2018 Methodology: Gynecology patients between 18-48 years were included by consecutive non probability sampling technique. Pregnant and adolescents were excluded. Incidence and type of abuse was identified by using Structured Norvold abuse questionnaire (NorAQ).Clinical diagnosis of gynecological disorders was made and comparison was done between abused patients and those not suffering from GBV. Demographic variables, type, severity and frequency of abuse were expressed as percentage. Results: Out of total 512 patients 198(38.6%) were found to have experienced GBV in any form. Psychological abuse was the most prevalent 108(54.5%) followed by physical 61(30.8%) and 29(14.6%) sexual abuse. Clinical diagnosis in patients with GBV and those not experiencing GBV were compared and pelvic pain P<0.001, vulvovaginitis P< 0.005 and menstrual disorders P<0.001 was statistically significant in abuse patients. Conclusion: Chances for opportunistic screening of gender based violence should not be missed. Screening in gynecology OPD, will be of benefit in restoring the health of these women. GBV patients more commonly present with gynecological symptoms. It is a challenge to medical professionals to see beyond symptoms and work toward complete care for women.