A need for trauma informed care in sexually transmitted disease clinics

Abstract

Objective This review examines trauma from violence as a risk factor for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among women attending STD clinics. The review also aims to suggest trauma informed care (TIC) integrated into STD clinics might more effectively address traumatic effects of violence linked to sexual risk behaviors among this population. Design and Sample A systematic literature review was conducted to identify empirical studies examining the relationship between multiple forms of violence and sexual risk behaviors among women attending STD clinics. Results All studies found high rates of violence including childhood sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, and/or community violence associated with high rates of sexual risk behaviors among women attending these settings. Researchers recommend screening for multiple forms of violence, interdisciplinary STD clinic services, and more trauma informed sexual risk reduction interventions to address multiple forms of violence found prevalent among this population. Conclusion Women attending STD clinics very often experience multiple forms of violence during their lifetime. TIC to address traumatic effects of violence might reduce sexual risk behaviors and sexually transmitted disease rates for improved health outcomes among this population.

Providing a Supportive Environment for Disclosure of Sexual Violence and Abuse in a Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare Setting: A Realist Review

“…Findings from this review also strongly suggest the use of routine inquiry as a tool to support disclosure of SV should only take place after specialist HCP training and where the people being asked are clear they have the choice as to whether to answer or not. Further research is needed to examine further ways of how TIP can be implemented into SRHS to meet the complex needs of people with a history of trauma (Brewer et al, 2020).…”

Where do those experiencing sexual violence seek help and is routine enquiry acceptable within a sexual healthcare setting? Findings from a population-based survey

“…Previous studies suggest that disclosure in healthcare settings is highly acceptable 15 16. However, the best way for healthcare services to facilitate this disclosure (for example, by routinely enquiring if SV has occurred) and create a safe place to disclose SV and access medical care remains uncertain, although some examples of good practice are emerging 17 18…”

The role of sexually transmitted infections (STI) prevention and control programs in reducing gender, sexual and STI-related stigma

“…Trauma-informed STI-related services respond to the complex consequences of systemic and interpersonal violence and discrimination suffered by people in the greatest need of STIs-related services. Registration, sexual history taking, genital examinations, sample collection, prevention and treatment discussion are all points where trauma triggering can occur [9]. This requires proactive policies and training to understand the role of trauma in STI, and respond by implementing trauma informed practices as routine.…”