Hymenal colposcopic examination in sexual offenses

Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 1981 Sep;2(3):209-15. doi: 10.1097/00000433-198109000-00004.

Abstract

Colposcopy, a method of more detailed examination of the cervix, widely used in the world but the application of this technique to forensic examinations is not. This presentation offers the benefits of the use of colposcopy in the examination of sexual assaults on women in a city in Brazil by a Medical Examiner of Mogi das Cruzes in the State of São Paulo near the megapolis of the same name. In 11.80%, or 59 of the 500 cases examined by the author, this technique has been of value to determine unsuspected trauma, fringed hymen, infantile hymen, healing, and accurate information in questionable cases.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Child
  • Child Abuse
  • Child, Preschool
  • Colposcopy*
  • Female
  • Forensic Medicine
  • Humans
  • Hymen / injuries*
  • Middle Aged
  • Rape
  • Rupture
  • Sex Offenses*
  • Wound Healing