The investigation of offences involving sexual assaults and the examination of the victims of such crimes, are matters of concern to the community, to medical people and to law enforcement agencies. Throughout the world, much thought has been given to these matters during the last few years. The subject has stimulated anger and frustration as well as sympathy. The public conscience has been stirred and professional groups--doctors, lawyers, legislators and law enforcement agencies--goaded on many occasions by feminist groups, have deliberated the various aspects of this problem. A deal of practical advice has been given on this subject and throughout the world there has been a number of different approaches to the manner in which the medical examination of these victims is handled.
