What happens during a physical forensic medical examination?

During a physical forensic medical examination, injuries, complaints and possible traces are professionally assessed and documented. Depending on the situation, the following steps may be included:

• a discussion about the incident,
• a physical examination,
• description and photographic documentation of injuries,
• collection of evidence,
• blood or urine samples,
• information about further support services.

In cases of sexual violence, the examination always takes place in a hospital. If a gynaecological or proctological examination is required, it is carried out together with experienced clinical professionals, for example gynaecologists.