Woman battering.

Woman battering is a common phenomenon in our society. The number of women effected means that most obstetrician-gynecologists have patients in their practice who are victims. When the diagnosis is suspected, it is necessary to question the patient directly. Therapy involves the use of resources mostly outside of the office. Therefore, the physician assumes the role of (1) permission giving through mutual acknowledgement that the problem exists and is deserving of remedial action and (2) information giving by providing the patient sources of relief from the abuse.