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Introduction: Limited research has investigated gender differences among treatment-seeking Veterans and serving military personnel, despite important implications for treatment provision. In order to better serve the needs of women with military service, the authors sought to address this gap by examining the clinical presentation of men and women requesting services for military-related operational stress injuries (OSIs). Methods: Using a sample of 648 treatment-seeking male ( n = 550) and female ( n = 99) Veterans and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel, the authors compared prevalence of childhood sexual and physical abuse, probable mental health diagnoses (posttraumatic stress disorder [PTSD], depression, and generalized anxiety disorder [GAD]), and severity of pain and somatic symptoms. Results were rerun to control for sociodemographic variables that significantly differed by gender. Results: Rates of probable PTSD were higher for women ( p < 0.05), and women reported significantly more somatic symptoms ( p < 0.001), pain severity ( p < 0.01), and childhood sexual abuse (47% of the sample; p < 0.001). Both men and women reported equally high rates of childhood physical abuse (71% for both genders). Discussion: Women in this study had a higher prevalence of probable PTSD and childhood sexual abuse, and reported higher severity of pain and somatic symptoms. The study highlights the diverse range of issues that are clinically relevant for – and may complicate the treatment of – women with military service who have OSIs.

LAY SUMMARY In 2015, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) implemented Operation HONOUR to eliminate sexual misconduct (SM) in the military. Sexual assault, inappropriate sexual behaviours, sexual harassment, and gender discrimination are all types of SM. Experiencing SM can result in depression, substance abuse, physical health problems, and even posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite Operation HONOUR, SM still happens in the CAF. At this time, many groups are working together to address SM and to support those who have experienced SM. Canadian-based researchers, policy makers, military members, Veterans, and clinicians are collaborating to identify new approaches to training, culture change, research, and treatment relating to SM in the CAF. The end goal of working together is to minimize SM in the CAF and ensure the health and safety of all CAF members and Veterans.