Perception of women survivors of sexual violence regarding sexual and reproductive health in conflict settings, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract Background Survivors have a particular understanding of sexual and reproductive health issues. The armed conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is known for the increased use of rape as a weapon of war. This study analyzes sexual and reproductive health issues among survivors of sexual violence in conflict settings in the DRC. Methods The study is qualitative analysis of those affected over 10 days. The study population consisted of 61 survivors of sexual violence including adolescents aged 10 to 19 and females aged 20 to 40. 6 adolescent girls and 55 young women survivors receiving psychosocial follow-up were part of the study. Information was collected using 4 focus groups conducted at two sites in the South Kivu region (Kavumu and Bunyakiri). Discussions were transcribed into a composition book and analyzed according to context. Results Methods to avoid pregnancy are generally unknown in the adolescent cohort. The girls were unaware of the consequences of unprotected sex, or HIV and AIDS. The more mature women, for their part, unanimously refute the practice of voluntary termination of pregnancy. They are aware of the efficacy of contraception though it is not in common use. Early marriage is not condoned by them. Conclusion The psychosocial and medical impact of conflict-related sexual violence can provide a better understanding of how the experience of such an act may affect survivors' perceptions of sexual and reproductive health.