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Cervical Exams and Sexual Abuse Survivors

nofrogsnofrogs member
edited August 2015 in 3rd Trimester
So, I was a victim of sexual abuse at four years old, by a female. I have read that as many as one in three women experience an assualt of this nature. As sad as this stat is, I think that might be an indication that someone on this board is is the same boat. Exams during my first labor were very triggering, until I got my epi. I even had someone come in, asking to if I would like to take a research survey during my exam, making me feel especially traumatized. My CNM this time around suggested doing exams on the birthing stool, so that they aren't as bad. Does this actually help? I don't want an epi this time, because I still have back pain from my epi with my first.

Has anyone actually had a drug-free birth as a survivor? 
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Re: Cervical Exams and Sexual Abuse Survivors

  • kanga915kanga915 member
    No experience but you can refuse cervical checks. They aren't necessary. I only had one with my first and will refuse them this time until I'm in active labor. Im sorry to hear you were victimized. I hope your birth is safe and you aren't triggered again.
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  • flasflas member
    As a victim of sexual abuse I haven't really had too many issues with cervical exams, but every person is different.
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  • aleecatsaleecats member
    edited August 2015
    kanga915 said:

    No experience but you can refuse cervical checks. They aren't necessary. I only had one with my first and will refuse them this time until I'm in active labor. Im sorry to hear you were victimized. I hope your birth is safe and you aren't triggered again.

    Check hospital policy first, my hospital requires them every hour but do them every half hour. So the most you can request is only doing it every hour. I'm sorry about the abuse I've been there but I've coped with it and I've had the same doctor for years that I trust as for nurses doing it I'm
    Only allowing female nurses to do it for personal comfort.
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  • rue:Drue:D member
    I don't have any experience in that department, but definitely discuss the issue with your doctor and hospital. Hopefully you can limit them to the least possible amount, or avoid them altogether.
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  • AlygonzalezAlygonzalez member
    I can relate to this issue, for sure -- I was a victim of sexual abuse at 4yrs old by one man and then again from about 11 - 14 by a different individual.

    I've noticed that I have issues exams in that general region, and sometimes just giving them a heads up (don't have to get detailed or anything, but just something like "I've been sexually abused, so these exams can be hard for me") can help them be more gentle or just keep checking in with you that you're doing ok. Just having the info out there can help me a little bit because sometimes I feel so silly/embarrassed sometimes how my body reacts to the situation (I don't necessarily cry, but my legs start shaking and my body tenses up a lot which can make it hurt more) and I feel the need to explain.

    Definitely advocate for yourself, and if you don't think you can go through an exam at a particular time feel empowered to say so. They can always wait until you feel ready, or it can be rescheduled or there might be an alternative way to get the information they need.

    Best wishes --- it's not always easy to find information/support for women who have been through sexual abuse and are pregnant. It definitely creates some unique situations! Hang in there!! You're definitely not alone, and know that your feelings are important and they can work with you to make it a little easier for you.
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  • TIARA0322TIARA0322 member
    Im on baby #3 and the epi hasn't been an issue for me. I'm a survivor as well being a victim from age 5-12 but exams don't trigger me. Remember we all have different triggers due to our assault so if it makes you uncomfortable and your baby isn't at risk, don't do it.

    Try letting the doctor know before exams if you are comfortable telling them. You don't have to go into details. If it gets too bad you may want some counseling even if you've already had some. It works wonders if you have the right therapist.

    You are definitely not by yourself here! Wishing you a happy, healthy pregnancy & baby!
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  • nofrogsnofrogs member
    edited August 2015
    What is it with the age of 4 and sexual abuse? I think I have heard more survivors say that at least one of their incidents occured at that age than any other age, followed by early teen years. Sorry for your experience.
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