Sexual violence is a major problem in South Africa, with the South African Police Services reporting 42,496 rape cases for 2015/2016. This likely represents only the tip of the iceberg as only a small fraction (as low as 1 in 25) of rapes are thought to be reported to the police. Sexual violence may cause HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), unwanted pregnancy and mental health disorders. With prompt treatment by appropriately trained healthcare workers associated health consequences can be avoided or reduced. Providing survivors of sexual violence with access to comprehensive medical care is a medical imperative.

More on This

'Urgent Action' Needed to Help South African Sexual Abuse Victims

• Better Care for Sexual Violence Survivors
• Report Finds Disturbing Gaps in Services for Sexual Violence Survivors in South Africa
• PHOTOESSAY: Doctors Without Borders Seeks to Offer Better Care for Sexual Violence Survivors