Support victim/survivors of sexual assault

Research shows that some women who have encountered sexual assault are reminded of the experience by gynaecological procedures such as the Pap test, and are therefore more likely to avoid participating in regular cervical screening.

To help support victim/survivors of sexual assault in accessing cervical screening in a safe and comfortable environment, PapScreen Victoria has established a new partnership with the Victorian Centres Against Sexual Assault (CASA) Forum.

Background
A woman's attitude towards having a Pap test is often reflective of the level of care she has received from her Pap test provider.

In 2002 a pilot study was conducted by CASA House which aimed to gauge the attitudes of women who were victim/survivors of sexual assault in regards to cervical screening. The following key issues were identified:

Some women are reminded of the sexual assault when having a Pap test
Many feel embarrassment, fear, dislike and pain/discomfort
Having a Pap test may be a traumatic experience both physically and emotionally
Whether a woman has a positive or negative experience of Pap tests is influenced by the healthcare provider and the level of support and sensitivity offered
Some women are reluctant to disclose information to their healthcare provider about their sexual assault
Some healthcare providers are reluctant to enquire about sexual assault
There is often a gender preference for a female healthcare provider. Gender was found to be more important than the healthcare provider being a doctor.

In July 2011 PapScreen surveyed 170 nurse Pap test providers in Victoria, assessing their experience of working with victim/survivors of sexual assault, the procedures they used to support those clients, and any training they may have undertaken in the area.

The results from this survey, combined with the findings from the 2002 pilot study, have formed the basis of the CASA/PapScreen partnership's strategic direction.

CASA/PapScreen partnership
PapScreen and CASA have developed and are currently implementing the following educational initiatives:

CASA-run seminars for nurse Pap test providers on working with clients who are victim/survivors of sexual assault
New educational resources for CASA counsellors and nurse Pap test providers
Delivering 'training the trainer' workshops for key representatives at each CASA centre
Identifying nurse Pap test providers in CASA locations to provide support and referral
Creating a poster for CASA waiting rooms.

PapScreen and CASA will continue to work collaboratively to ensure all women can feel safe and supported when undergoing cervical screening.

For more information please contact Liz O'Loughlin or call 03 9635 5663.