Sexual Misconduct During a Gynecologic Exam
How has it happened that young women at various universities across the country have become victims of sexual abuse at the hands of their gynecologists? There are, sadly, other times when our girls are also vulnerable - at the hands of the trusted coaches, teachers and even relatives.
Many parents know to speak to their daughters and sons at a young age and teach them to listen to their instincts if anyone touches them in an inappropriate way. And, yet, as young adults, these women are sometimes still vulnerable to abuse for a myriad of reasons including trusting the authority of a doctor.
I will say that for every male gynecologist that abuse these girls there are thousands of competent, caring and professional male gynecologists that have worked tirelessly only to care for them so we shouldn’t generalize and make our daughters afraid to see a male doctor. So what else should we do to protect them? How can we teach them what is appropriate?
Here are some starters:
Educate your daughter as to what is appropriate during a gynecologic exam. Talk about your experiences with her and let her know what to expect.
Remind her that she always has the right to say “no” to any part of the exam - including the pelvic exam.
Pap smears are not indicated in any woman under 21. Make sure she knows this so that if any doctor suggests it she can say: “ I understand this is not standard practice and would like to know why you are suggesting it”.
In a few weeks, I will be holding my first seminar for college aged women. I am welcoming newly admitted students and students who are taking time off before college as well. I will elaborate on this topic in full detail during the seminar and also teach them about such important topics as contraception and prevention of sexually transmitted infections. It is my hope that this seminar will arm these girls with the knowledge to make informed decisons in regards to this aspect of their health care once they are out on their own! Please see the seminar page of this website to sign up!