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What Does a Forensic Gynecologist Do?

Laura M. Sands
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Updated: May 23, 2024
Views: 12,705
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A forensic gynecologist specializes in collecting and analyzing scientific crime evidence during a gynecology exam to evaluate the condition of the female reproductive system. Often, such evidence is useful in criminal cases involving sexual assault, but forensic gynecologists are also called upon to assist in investigations of possible newborn abandonment and to investigate abortion allegations in places where such procedures are restricted or illegal. These specialists are also relied upon to provide postmortem examinations on women, when necessary. In addition to gathering and analyzing physical evidence, a forensic gynecologist may be called upon to testify during a criminal trial as an expert witness.

A doctor trained in obstetrics and gynecology and a forensic gynecologist undergo the same basic medical training to qualify each for a gynecological practice. In choosing a sub-specialty in forensics, however, the latter further participates in training to learn how to scrutinize physical evidence during and after a gynecological exam in order to assist law enforcement officers in the investigation of a crime. During 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 if that person engaged in consensual or forcible sex just prior to her death.

In addition to assisting in the investigation of sexual assault cases, a forensic gynecologist may also be asked to help determine whether or not a woman was recently pregnant, gave birth, miscarried or aborted a fetus. Such an examination is sometimes necessary in cases where a woman was believed to be pregnant, but is suspected of either aborting a fetus or of giving birth but abandoning a newborn infant. While an ob/gyn 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 asked to participate in criminal cases as an expert witness during court proceedings. Doing so requires forensic gynecologists to understand and observe all courtroom rules and decorum, while delivering scientific testimony in such a way that non-medical jurors, defendants and courtroom officers can understand. In accommodating time for courtroom appearances, depositions and a highly specialized medical practice, a forensic gynecologist must be highly organized and able to calmly offer her or his services in a professional, thorough manner at all times.

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Laura M. Sands
By Laura M. Sands
Laura Sands, the founder of a publishing company, brings her passion for writing and her expertise in digital publishing to her work. With a background in social sciences and extensive online work experience, she crafts compelling copy and content across various platforms. Her ability to understand and connect with target audiences makes her a skilled contributor to any content creation team.
Discussion Comments
By stl156 — On Sep 06, 2011

@TreeMan - I would be lead to believe that since the field of Gynecology is a very specific profession there are some things to look for in regards to helping police but it is more specific than say a lab technician.

A normal gynecologist I am sure can spot certain things that can be included in helping the police, but I imagine that a gynecologist that is specialized in forensics has even more specific things to look for.

A question I would have is how long the additional training to specialize in forensics would take for an already qualified gynecologist and what specific things would a forensic gynecologist look for that would be different than they would normally find in their field?

By TreeMan — On Sep 05, 2011

I am wondering how much more specialized training a regular gynecologist has to go through in order to become a forensic gynecologist. I know they have to take more specialized training to look for certain things, but is it anymore training that a lab technician, who also helps police in forensic evidence.

Laura M. Sands
Laura M. Sands
Laura Sands, the founder of a publishing company, brings her passion for writing and her expertise in digital publishing...
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