Forensic gynecologists gather and analyze forensic evidence during gynecological exams to assist in criminal cases involving sexual assault, newborn abandonment, and illegal abortions. They may also provide post-mortem examinations and testify as expert witnesses. They undergo additional training to examine physical evidence and may be called upon to determine pregnancy and childbirth. They must be organized and able to provide their services professionally and calmly during court proceedings.
A forensic gynecologist specializes in gathering and analyzing forensic evidence of crime during a gynecological exam to evaluate the condition of the female reproductive system. Often, such evidence is useful in criminal cases involving sexual assaults, but forensic gynecologists are also called upon to assist in the investigation of possible newborn abandonment and to investigate allegations of abortion in places where such procedures are restricted or illegal. These specialists are also relied upon to provide post-mortem examinations of women when needed. In addition to collecting and analyzing physical evidence, a forensic gynecologist may be called to testify in a criminal trial as an expert witness.
A physician trained in obstetrics and gynecology and a forensic gynecologist undergo the same basic medical training to each qualify for a gynecological practice. In choosing a forensic subspecialty, however, the latter participates further in training to learn how to examine physical evidence during and after a gynecological exam in order to assist law enforcement officers in the investigation of a crime. In the course of such work, a forensic gynecologist may be called upon to examine a female victim of rape or sexual assault, but may also be asked to examine a recently deceased victim to determine whether that person engaged in consensual or forced sexual intercourse just before the death her.
In addition to assisting in the investigation of sexual assault cases, a forensic gynecologist may also be asked to help determine whether a woman has recently been pregnant, given birth, miscarried, or miscarried a fetus. Such a test is sometimes needed in cases where a woman is thought to be pregnant but she is suspected of miscarrying a fetus or giving birth and abandoning a newborn baby. While a gynecologist can likely determine these same events during an examination, a forensic gynecologist is often preferred when these events have occurred as part of a suspected crime.
It is not uncommon for a forensic gynecologist to be called upon to participate in criminal proceedings as an expert witness during court proceedings. This requires forensic gynecologists to understand and observe all court rules and decorum while providing scientific evidence in a way that jurors, defendants, and non-medical officers can understand. The forensic gynecologist, in allocating time for courtroom appearances, depositions and a highly specialized medical office, must be highly organized and able to offer his or her services calmly, professionally and fully at all times.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
