In medicolegal examination of a rape survivor, which finding is considered the MOST legally significant for corroboration?

• A Intact hymen
• B Presence of motile spermatozoa in vaginal swab ✓
• C Presence of pubic lice
• D Posterior fourchette bruising

Explanation

The presence of motile spermatozoa in the vaginal swab provides the strongest corroborative evidence of recent sexual intercourse as spermatozoa remain motile for 6-12 hours in the vagina. Non-motile spermatozoa can persist up to 72 hours. Under the POCSO Act and BNS, consent is the legal crux of rape; an intact hymen does not exclude penetration, and a ruptured hymen alone does not prove rape.

Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (Narayan Reddy), 34th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.