WEDNESDAY, July 27 (HealthDay News) -- Obstetrician-gynecologists should screen and counsel women at risk of drinking and alcohol dependence, especially those who are pregnant or at risk of pregnancy; and health care providers should routinely screen all women for history of sexual assault, according to two Practice Bulletins from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists published in the August issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology.
Maureen G. Phipps, M.D., from the Committee on Health Care for Underserved Women, and colleagues recommend that obstetrician-gynecologists identify women who drink at risk levels, use brief intervention and education to encourage healthy behaviors, and refer patients who are alcohol dependent for professional treatment. All women should be screened for alcohol use at least annually, and during the first trimester of pregnancy. Brief interventions and motivational interviewing is suggested for women who are not physically addicted to alcohol. Pregnant women or those at risk of pregnancy should be given clear advice to avoid alcohol use, offered assistance to achieve abstinence, and provided with effective contraception if necessary.
Veronica Gillispie, M.D., from the Committee on Health Care for Underserved Women, and colleagues recommend that health care providers routinely screen all women for sexual assault, and in particular women who report pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, or sexual dysfunction. Sexual assault victims have an increased risk of unintended pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder. Physicians who assess these women should be familiar with forensic examination procedure. Emergency contraception, STD prophylaxis, and resources for rape-trauma victims should be provided.
"The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that health care providers routinely screen all patients for a history of sexual assault," the authors write.
Abstract - Alcohol
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Abstract - Sexual Abuse
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