Sexual Misconduct: ACOG Committee Opinion, Number 796.

Abstract

The practice of obstetrics and gynecology includes interaction in times of intense emotion and vulnerability for patients and involves sensitive physical examinations and medically necessary disclosure of private information about symptoms and experiences. The patient-physician relationship is damaged when there is either confusion regarding professional roles and behavior or clear lack of integrity that allows sexual exploitation and harm. Sexual misconduct by physicians is an abuse of professional power and a violation of patient trust. Although sexual misconduct is uncommon in clinical care, even one episode is unacceptable. Routine use of chaperones, in addition to the other best practices outlined in this Committee Opinion, will help assure patients and the public that obstetrician-gynecologists are maximizing efforts to create a safe environment for all patients.