Rape related pregnancy: Concept analysis

Abstract

Rape related pregnancy is a public health problem affecting female rape survivors of sexual assault especially adolescents. A number of factors influence the occurrence of rape related pregnancy which includes environmental, cultural, social, religious beliefs and some family relationships that lead to delays or total failure to seek care. Rape victims who fall pregnant experience considerable physical, psychological, social and spiritual trauma which could be avoided if emergency interventions were accessed but care seeking is low. Therefore, it is essential to obtain data that will assist the caregivers in the difficult task of reducing consequences of rape related pregnancy. Methodology: Walker & Avant (2011) 8 step classic procedure for concept analysis was adopted in analysing the concept of rape related pregnancy. Literature search was done in 3 weeks and out of 28 reviewed only 10 articles were selected for analysis. Google scholar search engine was used to assess journals and papers. Results: Literature focused on defining types of rape which in this paper are attributes of rape related pregnancy. Rape related pregnancy was defined as any pregnancy resulting from forced sex, reproductive coercion, statutory rape and sexual act with a woman of any age who cannot offer consent or resistance due to drug or alcohol intoxication or any other vulnerability. Conclusion: In addressing needs of women with rape related pregnancy, there is need for a well-informed decision-making process covering the scope of legal, religious, social and cultural aspects in the context of each individual survivor. There is therefore need to explore the lived experiences of these women so as to develop client centred care protocols.