NCJ Number
219047
Journal
Trauma, Violence, & Abuse Volume: 8 Issue: 2 Dated: April 2007 Pages: 149-177
Date Published
April 2007
Length
29 pages
Annotation
Based on 40 years of published research (1966-2006) on physical intimate partner violence (IPV) and sexual health (51 papers), this study synthesized the findings in order to identify the sexual health indicators for which there is sufficient evidence to indicate a causal link, as well as gaps in the literature for which additional research is needed to establish causality and explain mechanisms for these associations.
Abstract
The studies found that IPV was consistently associated with sexual risk-taking, inconsistent condom use, or partner sexual relations outside of the partnership (23 of 27 studies). IPV was also linked to having an unplanned pregnancy or induced abortion (13 of 16 studies), having a sexually transmitted infection (17 of 24 studies), and sexual dysfunction (17 of 18 studies). There was mixed evidence for IPVs association with other gynecological conditions such as infertility, endometriosis, cervical neoplasms, menstrual irregularities, and hysterectomy. Additional etiological research is needed in order to acquire a better understanding of the role of physical and sexual IPV on various gynecological health outcomes. For the purposes of this literature review "sexual health" was defined as a continuum of indicators of gynecological and reproductive health. Clinic-based screening for physical and sexual IPV could identify those women who choose to disclose such violence and could assist victims and their partners in addressing IPV before sexual health problems occur. Continued primary prevention activities are needed in order to prevent sexual and physical violence in dating and intimate partnerships. 7 tables, 9 notes, and 77 references