Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Trauma

Violence against women (VAW) is pervasive and includes intimate partner violence (IPV), sexual violence, and human trafficking. As all forms of VAW can adversely impact health, healthcare providers must be alert to their presence. Further, healthcare providers must actively seek to identify VAW, as screening for VAW and referral to additional services can improve the health of survivors. Guidelines exist for detection and referral to services for all forms of VAW. Most notably, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening and referral for IPV among all women of reproductive age. Best practices for IPV screening and response in healthcare is described by the mnemonic, CUES, developed by Futures Without Violence, a non-profit organization. CUES stands for (ensuring) Confidentiality, (and providing) Universal Education, Empowerment, and Support. Care for sexual assault survivors should include referral to specialized sexual forensic exam services. Guidelines for healthcare professionals providing care for survivors of human trafficking are currently emerging, and the World Health Organization (WHO) offers principles to follow in the care of trafficked individuals. All care for VAW survivors should be trauma-informed.